How to Score in Pickleball
Read on to find everything you need to know about keeping score in pickleball!
Keeping track of the score in pickleball is an intimidating feat when you first start playing the game. There are all these rules and numbers thrown all over the place, and it’s challenging to understand what’s going on. No need to fear. This post will explain everything you need to know about pickleball scoring. Once you have it figured out, you will never forget!
The Score Itself
The score in pickleball consists of three numbers, and it always starts as 0-0-2.
- First number: the serving team’s score
- Second number: the returning team’s score
- Third number: which partner is serving from the serving team
Keep reading to see why the third number is a 2.
Serving Sequence
The serving sequence is the most confusing part in scoring, but it’s easy to understand once it’s been explained!
The easiest way to remember the serving sequence is by numbering each server (either 1 or 2). Number 1 indicates the first server, and number 2 indicates the second server. The server's number (either 1 or 2) relates to the third number in the score. The serving team will start with the first server, number 1, and then switch to the second server, number 2, once the serving team loses the point. When the second server loses the point, then the opposing team begins their turn serving.
Wait, so why does the score start out as 0-0-2?
That’s the tricky part about the score. There is only one player who serves in the first serving sequence. Once the serving team loses their first point, then they pass the serve on to the opposing team. The remainder of the match is then played out where both partners (number 1 and 2) serve the ball.
How do you know when to switch servers?
Teams switch servers whenever they lose a point. As long as you are winning the point, you continue to serve!
How to Start a Match/Game
To start playing a match or game, the two teams can flip a coin or spin the paddle to decide who will serve first. Once you and your opponents establish who is serving first, the first server hits their first serve from the right side of the court. In pickleball, the server is only allowed to hit ONE serve (sorry, no second serves in this sport). For a serve to be in, it must bounce on the diagonally opposite side of the court. If you win the point, then you serve the next point from the left side of the court. The serving team continues to alternate sides after winning each point. The returning team, on the other hand, stays on the same side.
Wait, what if the serve hits the line?
Great question! Unlike in tennis, if the serve hits the kitchen line, it is considered out. If the serve hits the centerline, however, it is in! (Remember, you only get one serve, so make it count)
How to Score Points
Points are won whenever the serving team wins a point (so sorry, returning team). Games are typically played to 11 points, where a team must win by 2 points. To win a match, a team must win 2 out of 3 games.
Pickleball Scoring Pro Status
There you have it! We covered everything you need to know about pickleball scoring. There is no need to fear walking up to the pickleball court and not knowing how to keep track of the score. You could even teach others how to keep track thanks to your new knowledge.