Sometimes when you’re up at net and your opponent hits a lob, it’d be nice if you were just a little bit taller. The ball is going to be slightly above your hitting zone when it passes over your head, meaning you have to move back to hit it. You could retreat a few steps and set up, but that’s just not as impressive as jumping up and smashing the ball down into the court, is it? This is a move that some pros with good athleticism and a flare for the dramatic like to do at net or when transitioning forward.
The key to this shot lies in timing the jump. (Obviously, having a great vertical leap doesn’t hurt.) The swing is the same as on a regular overhead, but you need to get off the ground at the right moment so you’re at full extension when the ball is in your hitting zone. To practice, toss some balls up in the air and leap up to hit them. It’s as if you’re hitting a jump serve in volleyball.
Get off the ground too early or late and the rhythm on your stroke will be off. Spring straight up with both feet and for those few moments that you’re airborne, try to stabilize your body. You lose a little of the control you’d have over your balance when you’re planted on the court, so maintaining good posture is important. When you’re ready to strike, pronate your forearm and really snap your wrist so you can slam dunk the ball into the court.