The SMU men's tennis team is making a comeback to the NCAA Tournament after a challenging previous season. After going 2-11 in their first year in the ACC, the Mustangs improved to an 8-5 record this season and will face Princeton in the first round. Coach Grant Chen emphasizes the team's growth and readiness, noting their rich experience with players like Trevor Svajda, who has been instrumental to their success this year. The Mustangs have proven they can compete against top teams and are focused on maintaining their moment-to-moment mindset heading into the tournament.

By the Numbers
  • Last year: 2-11 in ACC play; this year: 8-5.
  • Trevor Svajda holds a 21-2 singles record and was a runner-up in the NCAA Division I Men's Singles Championship.
Yes, But

Despite their progress, the Mustangs faced tough competition this season, losing 11 matches, with six against teams ranked in the Top 25, showcasing the disparity between their performance and that of elite programs.

State of Play
  • The Mustangs have demonstrated the ability to win key matches, including victories over ranked opponents like Duke and No. 8 Baylor.
  • Focus remains on the immediate challenge against Princeton, avoiding distractions from potential matchups with higher-seeded teams.
What's Next

A win against Princeton could lead to a challenging second-round match against No. 2-seeded Texas, but the Mustangs鈥� immediate focus is solely on their first opponent.

Bottom Line

The SMU men's tennis team has demonstrated significant improvement and resilience, positioning themselves as a formidable competitor ready to embrace the postseason challenge with a focus on the present.