How to Keep Score in Pickleball (Without Losing Your Mind)
Ah, pickleball. The sweet sound of plastic ball on paddle, the squeak of sneakers, and the occasional existential crisis when someone asks, "What's the score again?"
If you've ever faked confidence while muttering "0-0-2" and praying no one asks you to explain it, this one's for you.
The Basics (a.k.a. Pickleball 101 for Mortals)
Pickleball is typically played to 11 points. You must win by 2. But here's the kicker: you only score when you're serving. That’s right—no stealing points while your opponents serve. Honor among picklers.
Doubles Scoring Format: You’ll hear a 3-number sequence: "Score A - Score B - Server Number."
· Score A = your team’s score
· Score B = opponent’s score
· Server Number = 1 or 2 (because each team gets 2 serves per side, except at the start of the game)
Example: "6-3-1" means your team has 6 points, opponents have 3, and you’re the first server on your side.
Singles Scoring Format: Easy peasy. Just say your score first, then your opponent’s. No third number. No second server. Just vibes.
The Oddly Specific Rules That Will Haunt You
· The first server of the game always starts on the right side of the court.
· You switch sides after scoring a point.
· The serve must go diagonally, and land beyond the kitchen. (No, you can’t sneak it short.)
· When in doubt, blame the scorekeeper. Even if it’s you.
Quick Cheatsheet for Doubles:
· Start of game = "0-0-2" (second server starts, because fairness).
· Your team serves and scores? Server keeps serving, switch sides.
· Your team faults? Other partner serves, score stays the same.
· Fault again? Ball goes to the other team. Try not to cry.
Pro Tip: If someone says, “What’s the score?” say it with confidence—even if you’re making it up. 87% of pickleball scoring disputes are won with tone alone.*
*Okay, maybe not scientifically proven. But it feels right.
Final Thought: Keeping score in pickleball is a bit like life—confusing at first, better with snacks, and a whole lot more fun when you laugh at the chaos.
Now go forth and serve with confidence. Or at least fake it ‘til your next pickleball lesson, but most of all Embrace your Outside!
