3 Person Pickleball: How to Play and What You Need to Know

Pickleball is a fun and dynamic sport that’s taken the world by storm. While most people are familiar with the traditional 2 player pickleball format, a growing number of players are exploring a new and exciting way to play the game: 3 person pickleball. If you're looking for a fresh and engaging twist on pickleball, this format offers new challenges, strategies, and fun. 

What is 3 Person Pickleball?

3 Person Pickleball is a variation of the standard game played on a regular pickleball court. As the name suggests, the game involves three players instead of the usual two. This version can be played in singles or doubles formats, but it introduces a unique dynamic that forces players to adapt their strategies and positioning.

• Single Player vs. Two Players: In a typical 3-person pickleball setup, one player is on one side, and the other two players team up against them. Alternatively, all three players can be on the same team, rotating in a manner similar to traditional doubles play but with one less player per side.
• Court Adjustments: The court dimensions and layout usually remain the same as standard pickleball. The non-volley zone (the kitchen) remains the same, and all typical pickleball rules, including the serve and fault rules, still apply.

How Do You Play 3 Person Pickleball?

Playing 3 person pickleball requires a few modifications to the standard game to keep the gameplay fair and exciting. Here’s a simple breakdown of how to play:

Rotation System

In this version, one player plays while the other two rotate in and out of play, either in a set rotation or based on points. This makes the game faster-paced and requires everyone to be on their toes at all times.

• Team Structure: The player on one side typically plays against the team of two players, rotating in a way that ensures each player is involved in every point.
• Positioning: The single player, much like in regular pickleball, remains in their half of the court. The two-player team must adjust their positioning, coordinating to cover the court effectively.

Scoring

Scoring in 3-person pickleball can follow standard pickleball rules or can be adjusted to suit the group’s preferences. Usually, points are scored when:

• The serving team wins the rally.
• The opposing team faults or hits the ball out of bounds.

The match is typically played to 11 points or 15 points, but the number of points can vary depending on player preference or the tournament rules.

Strategy and Teamwork

Since you have an extra player on the court, teamwork and strategic positioning are more important than ever. The team of two players must communicate effectively to cover all areas of the court. It’s also essential to adjust your positioning based on which player is receiving the ball, as the court is slightly more crowded.

Advantages of 3 Person Pickleball

The 3 person pickleball format offers numerous benefits that make it a unique and enjoyable experience:

1. More Action

With an extra player, there’s more action happening on the court, making the game feel faster and more exciting. This format promotes quicker decision-making and increases the overall intensity of the game.

2. Social Play

3-person pickleball is a fantastic way to socialize with friends or teammates. Because you have more players, it allows for a more casual and social atmosphere while still maintaining competitive play. It’s also a great way for beginners to get involved since the smaller team size makes it less intimidating.

3. Improved Skill Development

Playing with an additional player can improve your skills in various ways. For one, you will have to focus on court awareness and team dynamics. With more players on the court, you’ll need to adapt your communication and shot placement, improving your overall game strategy.

4. Less Physical Strain

For those who enjoy pickleball but find the traditional singles or doubles format physically demanding, 3-person pickleball can be a great alternative. With three players, you’ll spend less time covering the entire court and can take turns rotating in and out of play. This can make the game more accessible and less tiring, especially for recreational players or those just starting out.

What You Need for 3 Person Pickleball

To play 3-person pickleball, you’ll need the same equipment as a regular pickleball game:

• Pickleball Paddles: Each player will need a paddle. You can choose between wood, composite, or graphite paddles, depending on your style and preference.
• Pickleball: A standard pickleball, made from plastic and perforated with holes, is used for this format as well. You can use an indoor or outdoor ball depending on where you’re playing.
• Court: A standard pickleball court works perfectly for this format. While the court size doesn’t change, players must adapt their positioning and court coverage based on the extra player.

Tips for Playing 3 Person Pickleball

Here are a few tips to help you get started and succeed in 3-person pickleball:

1. Work on Team Communication

Good communication is key when playing with a team of two. Make sure to call out which player is covering which area and who’s taking the shot, especially in the middle of the court where things can get confusing.

2. Practice Rotations

Work on your rotation strategy so that each player gets the chance to serve, return, and play at the net. Keep it smooth to ensure the game doesn’t get disrupted.

3. Focus on Court Coverage

Since the court is slightly more crowded than a traditional game, pay close attention to your positioning. Ensure that no one is left out of position and that your team works together to cover all angles.

4. Adapt Your Serve

If you’re playing against a team of two, make sure your serves are targeted and tricky. Use placement to your advantage to challenge the two-player team.

Challenges You May Face in 3 Person Pickleball and How to Solve Them

While 3-person pickleball can be incredibly fun, it does come with its own set of challenges. Here are a few potential issues you may encounter and how to address them:

1. Court Coverage

The court can feel more crowded, especially when two players are on one team, potentially leaving gaps in coverage. This can lead to missed shots or easy points for the opposing player.

Solution: Work on positioning and movement. The team of two should always be aware of each other’s position and rotate quickly. Players should focus on covering the middle of the court and avoid stepping on each other's toes. It’s important to understand your role on the court and anticipate where the ball will go.

2. Serving and Rotations Confusion

Rotating in a three-player game can sometimes cause confusion, particularly with who is serving and where players should be positioned.

Solution: Establish a clear serving order and stick to it. For instance, the player who serves first should always serve from the right side, and the team of two can rotate in a predictable manner to avoid disrupting the flow of the game. Practicing rotations beforehand can help make this process seamless.

3. Disagreements Over Faults and Boundaries

With three players, it’s easy to have disagreements on whether a shot was in or out, especially when there's a tight call at the baseline.

Solution: Establish a rule for disputes before starting the game. For instance, you could agree that the server has the final say on line calls or that both teams agree on any disputed points before proceeding. Having a clear understanding beforehand can minimize arguments and keep the game fun.

Why You Should Try 3 Person Pickleball

3 person pickleball is a fresh, engaging twist on the classic game, offering an exciting experience for players of all skill levels. With more action, less physical strain, and the ability to socialize with more people, this format can help you hone your skills while still having fun. Whether you're playing with friends or in a competitive setting, 3-person pickleball is an enjoyable way to shake things up and improve your game.