A lob can be used when you are under pressure, out of position, facing an aggressive shot, or otherwise generally in a “pinch” on the pickleball court. In these circumstances—when you are considering using a defensive lob—go high into the air and around the middle of your opponents’ side of the pickleball court. The extra air time will give you and your partner more time to reset and get ready to defend another shot, while also giving your opponents more time to “think” about the shot and potentially make a mistake (as they could become somewhat disoriented by having to track the pickleball for so long in the air).
Bottom line – Go high and middle when using the defensive lob.
