ThatPickleballSchool
Hey guys, it’s Kyle from ThatPickleballSchool. I’ve never heard anyone talk about this skill, but if you add it to your game, you’ll start winning points you probably shouldn’t. It’s called the Sky Lob, and it’s a game-changer. Let’s dive in!
Why You Need the Sky Lob
Most players, when in a defensive position, try to be too perfect. You’re back at the baseline while your opponents are at the kitchen line—this is a clear disadvantage. When two players are back and two are up, the team at the kitchen has control. Your goal is to even out the playing field and work your way back to the kitchen line. Once you’re there, the advantage disappears.
But if you stay back, you’re vulnerable. The farther back you are, the harder it is to regain control of the point.
What Is the Sky Lob?
The Sky Lob is simply hitting the ball really high into the air, forcing your opponent to hit an overhead shot. Here’s what happens:
- You’re in a defensive position at the baseline.
- Your opponent is at the kitchen line.
- Instead of trying to make a perfect shot, you launch the ball high.
- Your opponent is forced to track the ball and hit an overhead (figure 1), often from an uncomfortable position.
Why It Works
When your opponent has to look straight up at the ball, they lose awareness of their court positioning. This can cause errors, mis-hits, or weak overheads that allow you to get back into position.
There are a few lobs in this clip:
When to Use the Sky Lob
1. When You’re Off-Balance
If you’re off-balance or out of position, don’t try to hit a perfect return. Instead, use the Sky Lob to buy yourself time. A rushed, imperfect shot can set up your opponent for an easy putaway. The Sky Lob gives you a chance to reset and get back into the point.
2. When You’re Pulled Off the Court
If you get dragged far to the side, a Sky Lob can help you recover. Instead of scrambling to make a risky shot, launch the ball high and use the time to reposition yourself.
3. On a Deep, Strong Return
Sometimes your opponent hits a perfect deep return that pushes you back. If you’re on your back foot and don’t feel confident about a drive or drop shot that lands in the kitchen, a Sky Lob is a great alternative. It throws off your opponent’s rhythm and buys you time to get set for the next ball.
4. Against a Heavy Topspin Shot
If your opponent hits a ball with heavy topspin, it often results in a pop-up. Instead of fighting the topspin, embrace it—send the ball even higher with a Sky Lob. This can force errors and create confusion, especially if your opponents are unsure who should take the shot.
The Psychology of the Sky Lob
There are two main ways the Sky Lob can help you win points:
1. Forcing Errors
By hitting multiple Sky Lobs, you apply mental pressure on your opponents. The longer a rally lasts, the more they feel like they need to finish the point. This often leads to frustration and mistakes.
2. Transitioning to Offense
The Sky Lob isn’t just a defensive shot. It helps neutralize the rally, giving you time to move forward and get back to the kitchen. Once you regain your position, you can switch to an offensive strategy.
Think you know pickleball inside and out? Challenge yourself with ThatPickleball IQ Test and see if you can score a perfect 10 out of 10!
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