Bangers get a lot of hate in pickleball, especially in recreational play. They’re known for slamming fast, hard shots that disrupt the gentle, slow-paced dinking game many players love. But before you jump on the “anti-banger” bandwagon, let’s get real for a minute—pickleball needs bangers.
Their powerful playing style adds excitement, challenges your skills, and forces you to elevate your game.
Here’s why you should stop worrying about bangers and start appreciating their place on the court.
There’s No Clear Definition of a “Banger”
First off, what exactly is a banger? You’ve probably heard the term thrown around, but there’s no hard-and-fast definition. A banger is typically someone who relies heavily on hard, fast drives rather than engaging in long dinking rallies. But here’s the thing—some players just love to hit the ball with power.
Does that make them any less of a pickleball player? Absolutely not! In fact, their style is just as valid as the finesse game.
Types of Bangers: Not All Are Created Equal
Not every banger plays the same way. Let’s break down the types of bangers you might face:
- Power Hitters: These players hit every shot with maximum force, often aiming for the opponent’s body or baseline. Their goal is to end the rally quickly.
- Strategic Bangers: These players mix power shots with finesse, driving the ball when the opportunity arises but also incorporating dinks and resets when needed.
- Reckless Bangers: These are the ones who just smash the ball without much thought. While they may win some points, they often hit shots into the net or out of bounds.
Are All Players with a Tennis Background Bangers?
Not necessarily. Many ex-tennis players enter pickleball with a natural tendency to hit hard, but not all of them are “bangers.” In fact, many high-level tennis players transition into pickleball with a balanced mix of power and control.
If you find yourself playing against a former tennis player who bangs hard, don’t automatically assume they’re one-dimensional. They likely have the ability to adjust and play the soft game too.
Why Do Bangers Get So Much Hate in Rec Play?
It’s simple: bangers disrupt the flow of what many consider the “classic” pickleball game—slow, strategic dinks and long rallies. For players who love the patience and finesse of pickleball, bangers can feel like a wrecking ball smashing through their carefully planned strategy.
But let’s be honest—complaints about bangers often come from frustration. Players who haven’t learned how to defend against fast drives can feel powerless, and that’s why bangers get blamed for “ruining the game.”
Yet the truth is, playing against a banger can teach you crucial skills, like staying calm under pressure and improving your resets.
Should You Change Your Style If You’re a Banger?
If you’re a banger, should you care about the criticism? Should you dial it back? The short answer: No! You play how you play, and as long as you’re following the rules, there’s no “right” way to play pickleball.
However, if you want to elevate your game, it’s a good idea to mix in some finesse shots and dinks. The best players are versatile—they know when to bang and when to slow the game down.
At the end of the day, don’t change just to make others happy. Play your game. If opponents can’t handle your drives, that’s their problem, not yours!
Why We Need Bangers in Pickleball
Here’s the real truth: bangers make pickleball better.
Here’s why:
- They Keep You on Your Toes: Bangers add an unpredictable element to the game. Their fast drives force you to stay sharp, practice resets, and improve your reflexes.
- They Add Excitement: A fast-paced rally filled with hard hits gets the adrenaline pumping. It’s thrilling and brings a whole new energy to the court.
- They Help You Grow: Playing against bangers teaches you how to defend under pressure and control the pace of the game. Learning to handle fast shots improves your overall skill set.
The Bottom Line: Embrace the Banger
Bangers aren’t the enemy—they’re just players with a different approach to the game. Whether you’re a banger yourself or dread playing against them, remember that their style is as legitimate as any other.
Pickleball thrives on diversity, and part of the sport’s beauty is how it accommodates all types of players, from dink specialists to power hitters. So next time you face a banger, take it as an opportunity to level up.
And if you are a banger? Keep banging on!
