The UConn tennis team has been on a roll since the season began. Connecticut is 2-0 against conference opponents and 6-1 overall, with a clean 4-0 record at home. Since Jan. 29, they’ve been running through the competition, with their only loss coming on Feb. 1 against Army, the second game of the season. Since that loss, it’s been nothing short of dominant, with their latest win being a statement 7-0 home win against Sacred Heart last week. On Friday, they’ll be going on the road to face South Dakota, hoping to keep their winning streak alive, which is currently sitting at five.
Against that game against Sacred Heart, the Huskies showed the full splendor of the talent on their roster. Sophomore Isabella Asenov, sophomore Victoria Matos and senior Isabel Petri Bere lead the team in most singles victories, with a 10-6, 11-8 and 11-8 record, respectively.
As for doubles, the doubles team of seniors Maria Constantinou and Olivia Wright has been heads and shoulders above everyone else with a 17-2 record, contributing to almost half of all their doubles wins. They’ve been a force of a duo since the season began and will be key players to watch in their matchup against South Dakota, and given the track record thus far, it seems they show no signs of slowing down any time soon.
As for South Dakota, they’ve been underwhelming since the start of the season, with a current record of 3-5, with their last matchup being a 7-0 shutout loss against Iowa State. They’ve been struggling to find their footing throughout the month, losing four out of their last five games. Their last win came against Utah State back on Feb. 1, beating them 4-3. All things considered; they will be the underdogs going into their game on Friday.
The Huskies hope to continue with the dominance they’ve displayed all season against South Dakota, especially after what happened against Sacred Heart. Even with the close games they’ve had so far against Fairfield and Georgetown, the Huskies have shown their ability to play under pressure and come out with the win, which will play a hand in how they perform against South Dakota if they show out. It’ll be an intriguing game if both teams bring their A-games to the court.