Men's Tennis | 5/3/2025 9:30:56 PM

RALEIGH, N.C., May 3, 2025 – The South Carolina State men’s tennis team concluded its season with a 4-0 loss to No. 9 NC State in the opening round of the NCAA Men’s Tennis Championship on Saturday in Raleigh, N.C. Despite the result, the Bulldogs’ appearance marked their fifth consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament, underscoring the program’s sustained success and dominance within the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC).
 
South Carolina State battled early but was unable to secure the doubles point. NC State jumped ahead with wins on Courts 2 and 3. Iliyas Maratuly and Ivan Pauliuchenka fell 6-0 to William Manning and Fons Van Sambeek at No. 3 doubles, while Aissa Benchakroun and Julius Augunas dropped a 6-1 decision to Martin Borisiouk and Nikolay Nedelchev at No. 2.
 
The Wolfpack carried that momentum into singles play, clinching the match with wins on Courts 6, 2, and 4. Pauliuchenka fell 6-1, 6-2 to Nedelchev at No. 6, and Novak Novakovic dropped a 6-1, 6-1 match to No. 91-ranked Luca Staeheli at No. 2. NC State sealed the victory at No. 4 singles, where Gabriel Johnson battled but ultimately fell 6-4, 6-2 to James Leroux.
 
With the outcome decided, the remaining singles matches were left unfinished.
 
Although the postseason run ended earlier than hoped, South Carolina State’s accomplishments this season reflect the team’s resilience and competitive drive. The Bulldogs aim to build on this experience as they prepare for future success.
 
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