Lob in LiteBall

In LiteBall, the lob is a shot aimed at sending the ball over an opponent positioned at the net. The lob can be both defensive and offensive. However, it can also be very frustrating: if it’s too short, it gives the opponent an easy chance to smash the ball and boosts their confidence. If it’s too long, it frustrates and annoys because “there was space.” Yet, it’s a shot that is often underestimated and, therefore, not practiced enough.

The grip can vary from a hammer grip to a continental grip, or even a semi-closed grip. The preparation is similar to that of baseline shots, but with a slightly less expansive preparation. The racket drops and opens up. The player bends both knees to adjust the racket’s level, with the weight of the body shifting to the back leg. The racket face is open, and the racket head follows an upward trajectory, starting from a very low position to reach a very high position. It’s a smooth, slow, and controlled movement.

A gradual extension of the knees occurs as the body weight is transferred forward and upward. The racket is open, and the wrist remains firm at impact. The racket’s motion follows the ball’s trajectory. The follow-through is very high, with the racket finishing its path above the head, and the entire body remains balanced.