If you’re playing at a 3.0 or higher, you’ve probably encountered an opponent who loves to use slice shots. The ball tends to spin away, making it harder to control your return. But here’s a strategy you might not have considered: return a slice with a slice.
Returning a slice with a slice can help you maintain control, keep your opponent off balance, and prevent them from setting up an easy third or fifth shot.
As our friend and pickleball coach Gina Cilento says, “A slice that gets close to the baseline can really disrupt your opponent’s rhythm, making it harder for them to return effectively.”
5 Key Tips for Returning a Slice with a Slice
Ready to add this tactic to your game? Here’s how to get started:
- Steady Your Paddle: Use your non-dominant hand to guide your paddle into position. Keeping it stable is key for a precise and controlled slice.
- Keep Your Wrist Firm: Avoid too much wrist movement during the swing. A steady wrist helps you hit more consistent shots and reduces mistakes.
- Slice Down on the Ball: Make sure your paddle moves downward when you slice, not flat or upward. This keeps the ball’s trajectory low and tricky for your opponent to return.
- Shift Your Weight Forward: As you make contact, transfer your weight to your front foot. This adds power and control, so you’re not just relying on your arm.
- Aim for the Baseline: If your opponents are hanging back, target your slice closer to the baseline. A deep slice will keep them on the defensive.
Watch our own Paul practice returning a slice with a slice alongside coach Gina Cilento:
When Should You Avoid Returning a Slice with a Slice?
While countering a slice with a slice can be very effective, there are particular situations where it’s better to opt for a different strategy, especially at 4.0+ levels.
- Facing a Strong Slicer: If your opponent is more skilled and has a stronger slice, trying to return it with your own slice might backfire. Instead, consider using a flat drive as an alternative. A flat, low drive reduces the chance of their heavy spin affecting your shot.
- Off-Balance Positioning: If you’re forced out of position, it’s not the best time to attempt a slice return. A more stable shot, like a flat return, will keep you in the rally and prevent giving your opponent an easy putaway.
- When You Need a Quick Reset: Sometimes, you need to neutralize the point rather than add more complexity with spin. A simple, consistent return that keeps the ball in play might be more effective than trying to slice under pressure.
Understanding when to use your slice and when to opt for another type of return can make a huge difference in maintaining control of the rally and setting yourself up for success.
Just Starting to Practice Slice Shots?
If you’re new to practicing slice shots, here are a few key strategies to keep in mind:
- Move Up to the Ball: Don’t wait for the ball to come to you. After it bounces, move up quickly to intercept it before the spin pulls it away. This helps you stay in control and prevents the ball from slipping out of reach.
- Stay Low: Keep your body low and your knees bent when returning a slice. Staying low helps you manage the ball’s low trajectory and gives you better control over your shot.
- Drive the Return: as stated before, when facing a strong slice, sometimes driving the ball back is your best bet. A solid, low drive can counter the spin and put you in a better position for the next shot.
Check out Pickleball Union’s collaborator and pro player Will East demonstrate how to execute a killer backhand slice return:
Using these strategies will make handling slice shots a lot easier. Whether you’re slicing back or opting for a drive, the trick is to stay proactive and make smart calls based on the situation.
Happy pickling!
