Mississippi Christian University tennis star Emily Buchanan has qualified for the 2026 ITA National Summer Championships after reaching the semifinals in the Week 6 ITA Summer Masters Series. She secured one of four automatic slots and will compete from August 8-11 at Baylor University's Hurd Tennis Center in Waco, Texas. The tournament features a 32-player singles draw and a 16-team doubles draw, with $20,000 in prize money up for grabs. Buchanan's qualification underscores her achievements as an All-American, solidifying her place amongst the nation's elite in Division II tennis.

By the Numbers
  • Buchanan is one of 20 automatic qualifiers for the national championships.
  • The championship offers $20,000 in prize money.
  • MSU finished the spring with a 27-2 record, marking a historic NCAA Division II semifinal appearance.
Yes, But

Despite her success, Buchanan stands out as the only NCAA Division II player among the women's automatic qualifiers, indicating the challenges she faces against predominately Division I competitors.

State of Play
  • Buchanan is coming off a strong season where she was recognized with ITA All-America honors in both singles and doubles.
  • She reached the semifinals at the ITA Summer Masters Series, continuing her competitive streak.
What's Next

Buchanan will aim for further accolades at the ITA National Summer Championships, where strong performances could lead to opportunities for professional-level play, including potential wild cards for the ITA All-American Championship and USTA Pro Circuit events.

Bottom Line

Emily Buchanan's qualification for the national championships not only highlights her individual prowess but also marks a significant achievement for Mississippi Christian University's tennis program, establishing a new standard for future competitors.