“We define a successful third-shot drop as one which crosses the net and lands in the far one-quarter of the opposing kitchen.”
Douw Steyn, Chris Koentges, Troy Mithrush, Susan Andrews and André Plourde
Given this definition, we use a numerical model of pickleball ball aerodynamics to investigate the ranges of initial speeds, angles and spins that result in a successful third shot drop.
We conclude that the initial speed must be in the range 10.9 m/s to 13 m/s for down-the-line shots and 13.3 m/s to 16.0 m/s for cross-court shots. The initial upward angle must be in the range 15.5 degrees to 22.5 degrees for down-the-line shots and 12.5 degrees to 18.0 degrees for cross-court shots.
We conclude that the effects of spin on the third shot drop are of secondary importance. We believe these results could be useful as a guide to coaches and players wanting to develop this crucial aspect of the game of pickleball.
We acknowledge that speed and angle control at the level of precision noted above can only be achieved with considerable practice and skill. Using immediate playback video recording of shots in practice sessions to determine initial speed and angle could be a beneficial coaching tool to achieve such shot control. The full report is below.