Stop Feeding the Beast: The Ruthless Return Strategy for Beating Bangers

The best way to beat a banger is to frustrate a banger – here's how to make him play your game, not the other way around

If you've ever felt helpless returning serve against a banger, you're not alone. That aggressive player who crushes everything is a common opponent, especially in over-50 pickleball.

The good news? There's a clear strategy to neutralize them, and it starts with understanding the worst return mistake you can make.

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The Monster You're Feeding

First, hitting a short return of serve to a banger is like handing them a gift. When you return serve short, especially to their forehand, you're setting up the perfect attack. They'll step in and slam it at your partner with angles you can't defend.

The worst part? Your partner is now under pressure, and the banger is smiling. You've already lost the point before the rally even starts.

Position Matters More Than You Think

Most recreational players stand too close to the baseline when returning serve. This forces you to half-volley deep balls and rush your shots. Pros stand way back, giving themselves time and balance.

You're not a pro. So take a big step back, like several feet behind the baseline. It's easier to move in than backward. You'll be surprised how much easier the return becomes when you're not scrambling.

The Return Strategy That Works

If the banger is the better player on the court, don't hit it back to them. Target their weaker partner instead. This simple shift wins you a ton of points.

If the banger is actually the weaker player, here's what to do:

Hit deep, not short. Short returns are a free meal for bangers. This is Pickleball 101. Keep it deep and gain position.
Target their backhand whenever possible. Most players are weaker on that side.
Aim for the center line to create confusion between partners.
Add height and loop to your return if you can. It gives you more time to advance and makes their attack harder.
Avoid hitting wide angles. You're just giving them more court to work with. (Unless it's an aggressive hybrid roll; more on that below.)

Once you've gained the kitchen line, fight fire with fire. Drop at the bangers feet to neutralize their attacks, then strike at their paddle-side hip.

Surviving at the Net

Once you've hit that beautiful deep return, you're moving forward. But here's where most players panic: they stand too close to the net when the banger starts firing.

Take a step back from the non-volley line. This gives you precious reaction time. The plastic ball slows down quickly, so distance is your friend.

Get into a ready position with your paddle low. When they're slamming hard, anything at shoulder height or above is going out. Let it go. You've already won the point; don't give it back by hitting an out ball.

Putting It All Together

The strategy is simple but requires discipline.

The best way to beat a banger is to frustrate a banger – to make him play your game, not the other way around

Stand back on the return
Hit deep to their backhand
Target the weaker player

And at the net, give yourself space to breathe. And don't be afraid to bang back.

As you get better, you can inch forward. Your reaction time improves, your confidence grows, and you'll start leaving those hard shots out naturally. Your game will elevate in ways you didn't expect.

The banger won't seem so scary anymore.

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