How Partners Move Positionally in Doubles Pickleball

​One compelling aspect of pickleball for enthusiasts of the sport is that it’s a social game often played in a doubles format. Basic doubles strategy includes player positioning. The court is broken up into four square sections, with the two team sides separated not only by the net, but also a no-volley zone (or “kitchen”) that extends seven feet in either direction from the net.

On the serve, the serving team stands just outside the baseline. Goth players typically remain there or shift just inside the baseline in preparation for the return. On the receiving end, the receiver stays back, typically at the baseline, while being ready to dash toward the net if the ball bounces soft in the forecourt. The receiver’s partner is already positioned up front, near the no-volley zone line, ready for the next sequence in the rally. After completing a return of serve, the receiver runs to the no-volley zone line to join their partner.

Holding this parallel position is important, and it is maintained as much as possible. The partners’ formation up front at the no-volley zone line may be broken up by lobs that go over them, or when the other team returns the ball with such force that it drives them back toward the baseline. In such cases, the players coordinate, with the player who doesn’t hit the ball backing up to match the teammate that does. This coordinated positional logic also applies when moving forward toward the net, with the partner hitting the ball deciding when and how the team shifts as a unit. When it comes to deciding who takes the ball, particularly when in the center of the court, phrases such as “Mine,” “Yours,” and “I Go” are essential.

Robert Palley

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