Let’s be honest: hitting every single ball hard is not going to make you a better player, but adding variation to your game will. 

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Sometimes, the most annoying shot to deal with is the one that just... stays low and barely even bounces. That’s the magic of the slice.

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And lucky for you, pro player Bobbi Oshiro dropped some gems on how to actually hit it right.

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First, What Is a Slice in Pickleball?

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In pickleball, a slice—or backspin shot—is made by swinging the paddle in a downward motion, which puts reverse spin on the ball. This causes the ball to travel slower, stay low after the bounce, and skid toward your opponent, making it tough for them to attack.

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While everyone’s out there practicing their Erne or lining up a cheeky Nasty Nelson, don’t forget: mastering the slice (and knowing your pickleball rules) can win you just as many points—quietly and efficiently.

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Pro Tips from Bobbi Oshiro: How to Hit the Perfect Slice

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Pro pickleball player Bobbi Oshiro shared her go-to technique for slicing, and here's exactly how she breaks it down:

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✅ Grip:

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Use a continental grip for better control and natural slice mechanics.

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✅ Paddle Angle:

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Angle the face of your paddle slightly upward—this helps apply that crisp backspin.

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✅ Swing Path:

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• Start your swing high
  

• Follow a high-to-low trajectory
  
  
• Keep your wrist and elbow locked
  
  
• Use your shoulder to drive the motion, not your wrist
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✅ Follow-Through:

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Keep it low and forward toward your target. You’re not trying to hit a winner—you're placing a ball that’s tough to attack.

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When Should You Use a Slice?

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According to Bobbi, here are the best times to use a slice:

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• When pulled wide or in a defensive position
  
  
• To reset the point and buy yourself time
  
  
• To mix up your spin game and keep opponents guessing
  
  
• To force a low bounce and make their next shot tougher

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Slice Your Way to Higher Pickleball Ratings

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Smarter shot selections lead to more wins—and that means higher pickleball ratings. Simple math.

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The perfect slice is subtle, sneaky, and strategic. Use it to:

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• Stay in more points
  
  
• Reduce unforced errors
  
  
• Force weaker returns and set up your counterattack
  

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Want to see how your slice impacts your game?
Try out these tips on your next pickleball tournament and see your pickleball rating move up. 

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