Professional pickleball player Collin Johns showed how to master the overhead shot, one of the most important shots in the game, to help players master it to win points effectively.
Speaking to Pickleball 360, Johns explained that the overhead shot is not just about finishing the rally, but about asserting dominance at the right moment. He described it as “a chance to take a really commanding position in the point,” stressing that players must approach it with both intent and control.
A common misconception, according to Johns, is the urge to hit the ball as hard as possible straight into the ground. He pointed out that “you don’t want to spike the ball into the ground, because a pickleball does not naturally bounce very high.” Instead, he advised a more calculated approach, players should “make contact a little bit lower” and aim to get the ball “deeper in the court,” ensuring a forward trajectory that keeps the ball moving aggressively through the playing area.
Beyond contact, footwork plays a critical role in executing a successful overhead. Johns noted that many players instinctively move incorrectly when tracking the ball. “A lot of people tend to want to shuffle backwards, which is a big no-no,” he said, highlighting the risk of losing balance or even falling. To address this, he emphasised the importance of the “drop step,” where the back leg turns first, for a right-handed player, the right leg, allowing smoother and safer backward movement while maintaining positioning.
Preparation of the upper body is equally vital. Johns explained that the non-dominant arm plays a key role in tracking the ball early. “The secondary arm… is going to help me track the ball by immediately going up,” he said. At the same time, the hitting arm should already be set. He described this as “pre-loading… in this trophy position,” which reduces complexity in timing and allows for a more fluid, controlled swing.
The overall message from Johns is clear, the overhead is not merely a power shot, but a blend of technique, positioning, and smart decision-making. When executed correctly, it becomes a reliable tool to dictate play and close out points with authority.