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UCLA Tennis Team Triumphs Over Rival USC, Advances to NCAA Quarters
2025-05-10

In an electrifying match that showcased the skill and determination of both teams, UCLA's men's tennis team emerged victorious against their crosstown rivals, USC, with a 4-2 score. The contest, held at the Los Angeles Tennis Center, marked a pivotal moment in the Bruins' journey towards the NCAA Championship quarterfinals in Waco, Texas.

The competition was intense, as all six singles matches extended into third sets, while doubles matches pushed to the limits, requiring a tiebreaker for resolution. Key players like Alexander Hoogmartens, Kaylan Bigun, and Emon van Loben Sels played crucial roles in securing a 3-1 lead for the Bruins. Although Connor Church of USC narrowed the gap, Spencer Johnson's remarkable comeback sealed the victory for UCLA. Johnson’s decisive ace on match point highlighted his prowess under pressure.

Moving forward, UCLA awaits the winner of the upcoming clash between Texas and Tennessee, scheduled for Saturday morning. In doubles play, Johnson and Aadarsh Tripathi maintained their undefeated streak, notching up another win. Their performance against Volodymyr Iakubenko and Oscar Weightman exemplified teamwork and precision. Meanwhile, Hoogmartens continued his stellar form, overcoming Karl Lee in a thrilling encounter. Similarly, Bigun added another feather to his cap by defeating Weightman, reinforcing his consistency in recent matches. Ultimately, Johnson's resilience in turning around a challenging third set against Iakubenko demonstrated the spirit of perseverance that defines collegiate athletics. This victory underscores the importance of grit, teamwork, and unwavering dedication, inspiring young athletes everywhere to push beyond perceived limits and achieve greatness.

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