Bandeja technique: when to jump for deep lobs

What this lesson covers

The jump during a bandeja serves one purpose: moving the body behind the ball to ensure contact remains in front. This technique applies exclusively to deep lobs where there is insufficient time to establish a stable base. By jumping backward, the player creates momentum to land and immediately push back toward the net position.

Execution begins with a rapid retreat using crossover or sidesteps. The takeoff occurs off the back leg, pushing the body diagonally backward rather than vertically. Contact occurs at the peak of the jump, with the body weight moving backward to compensate for the ball's depth. Landing on both feet allows for an explosive recovery to the net. Avoid jumping on shorter lobs where a stable base is possible, as unnecessary jumping complicates timing and often results in low contact points or poor balance. If a lob is too deep, playing the ball off the back glass remains a more reliable alternative.