The Pickleball Backhand Drive: When to Use It and When to Dink Instead

The backhand drive in pickleball — a flat, pace-generating shot typically from mid-court or behind the baseline — is one of the most commonly misused shots at the recreational level. Players reach for it when a soft dink would serve them better, and hesitate on it when pace is genuinely warranted. Getting the decision right matters more than perfecting the mechanics.

When a backhand drive makes sense

Drive when the ball is sitting above net height and you have time to set up properly. A ball that's at chest height or above, floating toward you in the transition zone, is an invitation to drive. The goal is to force your opponent into a defensive position — a low ball they have to dig up, or an error from reaching. Driving cross-court from the backhand side to the opponent's forehand hip is particularly effective because it reduces their reaction window while keeping you in a recoverable position. Drive from a position of strength, not emergency.

When to dink instead

If the ball is below net height and you're at or near the kitchen, driving produces a low-percentage shot — you're hitting up over the net with pace, which means the ball travels at an angle your opponent can attack. Dink that ball. Similarly, if you're off-balance, late on the ball, or your opponent is already positioned and waiting, a drive hands them a predictable ball to counter. The dink resets the situation. Many players drive out of anxiety when they're behind in a rally — the right response there is almost always a soft shot that neutralizes, not a drive that compounds the risk.

The mechanics of a clean backhand drive

A clean backhand drive comes from a low-to-high swing path, contact in front of the hip, and a firm but not tense grip through the point of contact. Keep the swing compact — this is not a tennis backswing. Lead with the elbow, drive through the ball, and finish with the paddle face closing slightly to keep the ball in the court. Players who pop the ball up on backhand drives are usually contacting too late or using too open a face. Both are correctable with repetition in drilling, not just match play.