James Ignatowich Shares Insights on Effective Forehand Techniques in Pickleball

James Ignatowich shares valuable insights on playing from the right side of the pickleball court, emphasizing strategy over power. He discusses the importance of low, controlled drives and how they can create opportunities for partners. Ignatowich also highlights his innovative approach to fan engagement through his paddle brand, RPM Pickleball, and his ongoing involvement in the sport despite recent challenges. This article provides a comprehensive look at his techniques and contributions to the pickleball community.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 1, 2026, 18:41 IST

Mastering the Right Side of the Court

James Ignatowich emphasizes that sheer power isn't the only factor when playing from the right side of the court. He believes that a well-thought-out strategy is more crucial than simply hitting the ball hard. In a recent discussion on his Instagram, he stated, “Today, we’ll focus on executing aggressive drives from the right side using your forehand. For players on the right, being assertive with their third shots is vital, as they have their partner on the left ready to take advantage of openings in the middle.”

Ignatowich pointed out that the primary role of the right-side player is not to dominate the game but to set up opportunities for their partner, who usually controls the center with their forehand. He explained, “I prefer to keep my drive low and controlled because it’s not about hitting the ball with maximum force from the right side.”

He cautioned that hitting too hard can disrupt team dynamics. “When you strike a powerful drive from the right, it reduces your partner's time to position themselves effectively. A slower, lower drive allows the left-side player to assess the situation and make a move,” he added.

Ignatowich elaborated on the ideal technique, stating, “The ball should bounce low and not be overly forceful, compelling your opponent to make contact at a lower angle.” He believes that maintaining proper technique is essential for keeping the ball challenging to return. “For me, the key is to stay low and keep my head steady. If your head rises during the drive, it complicates the precision of your shot,” he noted.

About James Ignatowich

Outside of competitive play, Ignatowich is developing his paddle brand, RPM Pickleball, which is gaining traction in the sports equipment market. His brand is notable for its innovative approach to fan engagement.

Recently, he became the first professional pickleball athlete to provide personalized video messages to fans who purchase his paddles, offering them unique shout-outs. This initiative has enhanced his relationship with the growing pickleball community. Despite facing a ban from the PPA Tour after participating in a tournament in Asia, Ignatowich remains active in the pickleball scene, focusing on mentorship, brand development, and fan interaction as the sport continues to expand globally.