Learn the 5 Essential Two-Handed Backhand Shots with Pro Connor Garnett

One theme runs through every shot Connor demonstrates: keep your backswing small – a lot of players think power comes from a big swing, but that's backwards

Connor Garnett, the founder of Twoey Nation and a top pickleball pro, just spent an hour breaking down the five essential two-handed backhand shots you need to master.

If you've been struggling with your backhand or wondering why some players make it look so effortless, this masterclass from Friday Pickleball has all the answers.

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The Five Shots That Matter

Connor walks through five distinct two-handed backhand shots that form the foundation of a complete game, and mastering all five gives you the versatility to handle any situation on the court.

• The basic drive: your go-to power shot with compact mechanics and hip-driven rotation.
• The speed-up: an aggressive follow-up that catches opponents off guard when they expect a softer shot.
• The drop: a delicate touch shot that requires patience and precise paddle control.
• The counter: a defensive stroke that turns incoming pace into your own offensive opportunity.
• The slice: a specialty shot with side spin that adds variety and keeps opponents guessing.

Compact Is King

One theme runs through every shot Connor demonstrates: keep your backswing small. A lot of players think power comes from a big swing, but that's backwards.

The real engine is your hips and core. Your arms should follow along, not lead the charge. When you keep your paddle in front of you and let your lower body do the work, you get more control, more consistency, and honestly, more power.

You should always be able to see your paddle. If it disappears behind you, you've gone too far.

The Hip Is Your Secret Weapon

Connor emphasizes the left hip as the primary driver of your two-handed backhand.

Start with your paddle tip below your wrist, let your left hip come out, and then your arms follow naturally.

This sequencing matters because it keeps your stroke efficient. The difference is subtle but game-changing, especially when you're tired late in a match.

Speed-Ups Aren't About Deception

A speed-up doesn't need to look different from your regular shot. In fact, the best speed-ups look almost identical until the moment of contact.

What matters is spot, pace, and spin. You can hit the same target at two different speeds, or you can vary your placement. If your opponent can't cover all the angles and speeds you're capable of, they're in trouble.

The real key is getting back to your ready position immediately after you hit it, because at higher levels, the ball's coming back.

Drops Require Patience

The drop shot is where touch becomes everything.

Connor's biggest coaching point: let the ball drop onto your paddle instead of hitting it at its peak.

This gives you more time to control the shot and more margin for error. Pair that with a little carve around the ball, keep your body still, and lead with the paddle tip. The result is a soft, controlled shot that lands just over the net.

Pros hit drops incredibly close to the net. Your margin is probably just a few inches above the net. Anything higher is attackable.

The Counter Is About Timing

When you're defending and need to turn the tables, the counter is your weapon.

You don't need a big backswing here either. A compact counter with good footwork and hip rotation is way more effective than a wild swing.

Plant your front foot, then swing. That simple sequence keeps you balanced and ready for whatever comes back. And remember: you're pushing the ball through, not trying to rip it.

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Feel It Before You Perfect It

Toward the end of the session, Connor makes a point that applies to all five shots. He'd rather see you hit a slightly imperfect shot slowly and controlled than a technically perfect one at full speed.

Why? Because you need to develop feel for the shot first. Once you understand how the paddle interacts with the ball, you can add pace and power. But if you're just swinging hard and hoping, you'll never build consistency.