Key takeaways:
Strong communication and smart positioning help doubles teams cover the court and avoid easy mistakes.
Serving with purpose, targeting weaknesses, and staying adaptable keep your team in control of the match.
The right pickleball gear makes it easier to move confidently and play your best as a team.
Doubles pickleball isn’t just about hitting hard or moving fast—it’s about working together as a true team. The best doubles pairs know how to communicate, cover the court as a unit, and make smart decisions that keep the pressure on their opponents. Great teamwork often wins matches long before the final shot is played.
At PB5star, we know that success on the court starts with preparation, and that includes the right gear. Our PB5 Court2 shoes and performance-driven pickleball gear are designed to support the quick footwork and smooth positioning of doubles matches. This guide will walk you through the pickleball doubles strategy that will help you and your partner play smarter, stay connected, and win more matches together.
Master effective communication with your partner
Good communication is one of the biggest factors that separates strong doubles teams from the rest. Calling out shots like "mine," "yours," or "switch" helps prevent confusion and keeps both players in sync throughout the match. Having these clear cues in place reduces hesitation and helps you cover the court more efficiently together.
It’s not just about calling the ball during play—talking before and between points matters just as much. Decide ahead of time who handles middle shots, lobs, or tricky returns, and stay connected with quick check-ins during the game. A little encouragement between rallies also goes a long way toward keeping focus and building momentum as a team.
Use smart court positioning to cover ground together
Good positioning in doubles is all about moving as a team and staying ready to cover the court together. The more you understand where to be—and where not to be—the easier it is to keep your opponents from finding easy openings. Here’s how to keep your positioning sharp:
Move as a unit side by side. Staying connected avoids leaving big gaps between you and your partner.
Control the net whenever possible. Being up at the kitchen line gives you the best chance to cut off shots and apply pressure.
Don’t drift too far back. Avoid getting stuck deep in the court, especially after returning serves—work your way forward to stay aggressive.
Cover the middle wisely. Decide which partner takes priority on middle balls to avoid hesitation.
The more you move in sync, the harder it is for your opponents to find open space and take control of the point. Good positioning builds confidence between partners and keeps your team steady through every rally.
Serve and return with strategy, not just power
Serving and returning with purpose sets the tone for every rally. Instead of relying on power alone, focus on sending your serves deep and placing your returns where they’ll do the most damage. These choices give you and your partner more chances to take control early.
Having the right paddle can help you add variety to your shots, from deep drives to soft returns with spin. After your return, work your way up to the kitchen line as quickly as you can. The faster you claim that position, the more options you have to pressure your opponents and dictate how the point plays out.
Target weaknesses and adjust as a team
A great doubles team knows how to spot openings and shift tactics when needed. The stronger your awareness and teamwork, the easier it is to make adjustments that keep your opponents on the defensive. Here’s how you and your partner can use smart targeting to stay in control:
Pick up on the weaker player’s tendencies. If one opponent struggles on certain shots, make them play more of those.
Look for body positioning cues. Aim shots at areas where your opponents aren’t fully set.
Mix up your shot placement. If they adjust, keep them guessing with changes in direction and pace.
Keep the conversation going. Use downtime between points to make small adjustments together.
Good communication and flexibility help keep your team connected and your opponents off balance. The more you can read the match and respond as a pair, the harder it is for the other side to find its rhythm.
Importance of teamwork and smart strategy
Winning in doubles pickleball is about more than just solid shots—it’s about playing smart together. Teams that communicate well, position themselves effectively, and stay flexible with their strategy are the ones that control the pace and finish points on their terms.
At PB5star, we know that great teamwork deserves the right support. Our PB5 Court2 shoes for men and women are designed for smooth movement, giving you and your partner the stability and comfort you need to stay connected and confident throughout the match.
