Pickleball Secrets with Brian Barnett!

At Pohanka, we know the value of staying active, competitive, and connected, and few sports capture that spirit like pickleball. Recently, our own Brian Barnett shared some of his experiences on the court at our Honda of Tomball, Texas location, giving us a glimpse into both the fun and strategy behind one of America’s fastest growing sports.

Brian described playing in a round robin tournament before heading to a local workout facility with several pickleball courts, where matches stretched late into the evening. The games were filled with energy, friendly competition, and plenty of lessons that extend beyond the court.

One of Brian’s key points was the importance of understanding the kitchen. As he explained, “there’s an area called the kitchen … you want to get to the kitchen because that’s the power position to get good points and put your opponents under pressure.”

He also highlights the value of soft hands and smart shot selection. While powerful spikes can earn points, drop shots and placement often prove just as effective. For example, the video below illustrates him hitting three consecutive spikes before switching tactics and finishing the rally with a perfectly placed drop shot. It was a reminder that sometimes finesse can be even more effective than power

The videos from Brian’s matches show not just skill, but also the spirit of camaraderie that makes the game so enjoyable. Whether through a spike, a slice serve, or a well timed drop shot, pickleball encourages players to stay sharp while having fun.

At Pohanka, we are proud to celebrate the passions and talents of our team members on and off the court. Brian’s pickleball insights remind us that with the right strategy and teamwork, we can all raise our game.