Pickleball Scoring 101

Score Big with Pickleball:

Hey there, pickleball aficionados! If you’re diving into the world of pickleball, you’re in for a treat. This fast-paced sport is not only a fantastic way to stay active but also a great opportunity to bond with friends or meet new people. For those of you looking to up your game, let’s demystify one of the most crucial aspects of pickleball—scoring. 

Understanding the Basics

Pickleball scoring can seem a bit tricky at first, but don’t worry; it’s easier than it looks! Here’s the lowdown:

1. Game Format: Pickleball games are usually played to 11 points, but you need to win by at least 2 points. For tournament play or more competitive matches, games might go to 15 or 21.

2. Who Serves?: At the start of each game, one player from the serving team will serve. When the serving team scores a point, the same server continues to serve but switches sides with their partner (in doubles play). If the serving team loses the point, the serve goes to the opposing team.

3. Scoring System:

   • Only the Serving Team Can Score Points: In pickleball, only the serving team can score points. If the receiving team wins the rally, they don’t get a point—they just get the serve.
   • When the Serve Switches: In doubles, each player on the serving team will get a chance to serve before the serve switches to the other team. The only time both players serve before switching sides is at the start of the game or when a new game begins.

4. Calling the Score: When calling the score, you’ll hear three numbers. Here’s the format:

   • Server’s Score
   • Receiver’s Score
   • Server Number (either 1 or 2 to indicate whether it’s the first or second server of the team)

   For example, if the score is called as “7-4-2,” it means your team has 7 points, the opposing team has 4 points, and your team’s second server is up.

Tips for Keeping Score

• Stay Focused: It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, but keep an eye on the score so you can stay on top of the game’s flow.
• Communicate: In doubles play, clear communication with your partner can prevent confusion and ensure everyone knows the score and who’s serving.

Pickleball is all about having fun and staying engaged. Once you get the hang of the scoring, you’ll find yourself more focused on strategy and less on keeping track of numbers. So grab your paddle, hit the court, and enjoy the game!

Remember, whether you’re playing for leisure or in a more competitive setting, the key is to enjoy every point and keep the spirit of the game alive. Happy pickleballing!