The James Ignatowich Show

Welcome to Episode 89 of the James Ignatowich Show! In this episode, James shares why it's so important to practice point-based drilling to improve your skills, why practicing like it's a game can prepare you better for competition, and how drive and drop drills mimic real game scenarios effectively. He also explains the differences between slice and topspin drops, and when to use each pickleball shot. James also talks about how different court surfaces can make or break your gameplay experience and his new favorite pickleball player: Maxwell Freeman.

Welcome to Episode 88 of the James Ignatowich Show! In this episode, James talks about the recent Major League Pickleball (MLP) tournament in Miami, with some inside insight into the importance of coaching and team dynamics in competitive play — and the performance of pickleball player Ryan Fu, a rising star in the pro pickleball world. James also shares pickleball techniques and strategy: including why you should always volley in front of your body, tips for faster hands, and and simple strategies that build player confidence.

Welcome to Episode 87 of the James Ignatowich Show. In this episode, James talks about how important it is to find (and leverage) your strengths in pickleball — rather than focusing on your weaknesses. Plus, how your forehand shot can improve your game, including: some strategies for maximizing your forehand return, the advantages of playing on the left side of the court, effective dinking techniques to set up a forehand shot, and why anticipation and movement are important in executing a successful forehand.

Welcome to Episode 86 of The James Ignatowich Show! In this episode, James talks about how to expose your opponent's weak backhand shot, including targeting their backhand during returns, maximizing your opportunities, and why shorter pickleball shots can create aggressive angles against backhands. James will share his screwball serve and how it can be a game-changer against weak returns, plus how pickleball court geometry is crucial for strategic play.

Welcome to Episode 85 of the James Ignatowich Show! In this episode, James gives his final thoughts on PPA Rate Championships, including his gameplay and strategy of the different players. He also explains how, when watching professional tournaments, rec players should watch and adapt techniques from the pros, including shot speed, positioning, and serving techniques. Plus, strategies you can work on at your local court, including the significance of depth and angle, the dynamics of forehand vs. backhand shots, and the importance of communication and strategy in doubles play.

Welcome to Episode 84 of the James Ignatowich Show! In this episode, James talks about the increasing use of the two-handed backhand in pickleball and how you can execute this shot, including the importance of body positioning, grip, and technique. James also talks about recent pro pickleball tournament experiences where driving the ball is becoming more common, adapting to new trends in pickleball, and his commitment to providing consistent coaching content.

Welcome to Episode 83 of the James Ignatowich Show! In this episode, James talks about pickleball strategy, including: improving your dinking, the importance of topspin, and how to (effectively) speed up the game. Plus pickleball playing tips, like how to drive the ball effectively and maintaining a low stance for better performance. James also talks about being a professional pickleball player and how he loves to connect with fans.

Welcome to Episode 82 of the James Ignatowich Show! In this episode, James talks about the importance of drilling in pickleball — but REALISTIC drilling that closely mimics actual game scenarios. He goes over some common pickleball drilling practices that will not help your pickleball game, and also offers new drills to enhance skills, like volleying and resetting. By focusing on game-specific techniques, players can improve their performance and develop better habits on the court. James also shares insights on improving your other pickleball skills, including focusing on dinking techniques, the importance of maintaining a low stance during drives, and the effectiveness of crossbody attacks.

Welcome to Episode 81 of the James Ignatowich Show! In this episode, James talks about joining Major League Pickleball at Central Park in New York City. He also discusses the evolution of pickleball, strategies that are helping shape the game, and the influx of all the new young players in the sport. Plus, playing strategies: the importance of offensive and defensive lobs, techniques for putting away overhead shots, and adapting while playing with different partners.

Welcome to Episode 80 of the James Ignatowich Show! In this episode, James talks about the two most important shots in pickleball: the serve and third shot drop. Hitting a hard serve can generate a missed return by your opponent and set up an easier third shot drop. He also discusses the role of right-side players to be more aggressive and speed up the game, the effectiveness of cross-court speed-ups, and the challenge of getting out of the way of a hard shot aimed at your right shoulder. James also shares his experiences playing at the PPA Las Vegas.