Tulane University’s men’s tennis team defeated the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) 4-1 in the first round of the American Conference Championships on Apr. 16.
The win moves Tulane, seeded ninth, into the quarterfinals and improves their season record to 8-11. UAB ends its season with a record of 7-14. The result gives Tulane a chance to compete against top-seeded Rice University in the next round.
During doubles play, Tulane’s Daniel Phillips and Lance Nisbet, ranked No. 37 nationally as a pair, won their match at the No.1 position. However, UAB secured victories on courts two and three to claim the overall doubles point.
In singles competition, Steven Rice earned Tulane’s first point with a decisive win at No.6 singles (6-0, 6-1). Alec Gaudin followed with a victory at No.3 (6-2, 7-5), while Hady ElKordy added another point at No.4 (6-3, 6-4). Daniel Phillips clinched the match for Tulane by winning his contest at No.1 singles (7-6 [7-5], 6-2).
Tulane will face Rice University in Friday’s quarterfinals match scheduled for 10 a.m., where Rice holds a season record of 13-7 and is ranked No.49 nationally. Petro Kuzmenok from Rice is currently ranked No.53 in singles and teams up with Santiago Navarro for a doubles ranking of No.57.
The outcome sets up an important test for Tulane as they look to continue their run in conference play.
