The ceiling ball is the #1 defensive shot in the game of racquetball.  It is the easiest way to get your opponent out of center court, and allow you to reposition yourself there.  If the ball is out of your hitting zone, or you are off balance, hit a ceiling ball to get your opponent out of center court and buy yourself time to get back into position.

 

Here is a video of example of a few ceiling balls.  Notice how each one forces the other player to move back out of center court.

 

 

When hitting your ceiling balls, make sure you hit the ceiling first (roughly 5 to 8 feet back from the front wall), then the front wall.  If your ceiling balls are too long (coming off the back wall) you'll have to either hit them a little lighter, or aim further back on the ceiling.  Practice them over and over to find your spot.

 

The best way to return a good drive serve that has you off balance is by hitting a ceiling ball.  Work on crossing over with good footwork, reaching out and angling your racquet so that the ball shoots up toward the ceiling.