What Is Stacking in Pickleball and How Does It Work?

Stacking is a doubles strategy that lets you and your partner stay on your preferred sides of the court regardless of what the score dictates.

The Setup

• Preferred side: Know which side of the court you and your partner each want to play before the game starts.
• On the serve: If the score forces you to start on the wrong side, begin stacked with your partner and switch immediately after the serve.
• On the return: Return the serve from whichever box the score requires, then switch with your partner as you both move toward the kitchen line.
• Advanced stack: Your partner starts on their preferred side before the return, so there is less movement needed after the ball is in play.