INDIANAPOLIS – A clutch performance that likely saved their season, the IUPUI women's tennis team (5-17, 3-3) came through when it seemed to matter most, downing South Dakota State (2-18, 0-5) 5-2 Friday afternoon (April 21), followed by a nightcap non-conference win over DePauw (12-5), 4-3.  The win gave the Jags a strong chance to advance to the Summit League Tournament, pending the outcome of Western Illinois' final two dual-meets.
 
The Jags received two big boosts on the day from Mariella Pessina and Molly Nguyen, who went undefeated in their respective competitions.  Pessina broke through for a 7-6 (6), 6-0 win at the No. 3 singles, coming just after she teamed with Valeriia Lavrenchuk for a 6-2 win at the No. 2 doubles spot.  Combining with Nguyen and Marina Schneiger's 6-2 win at the No. 3, IUPUI was able to capture the doubles point to take an early lead.
 
Nguyen picked up a strong 7-5, 6-3 win at the No. 5, part of four singles points for IUPUI.  Sara Sherif, who was honored prior to the match for playing in her final pair of dual-meets at home, down Morgan Brower 6-3, 6-4 at the No. 2, while Samantha Mayer went the distance in a 6-2, 1-6, 6-2 rally at the No. 4. 
 
The win gives IUPUI a chance at a spot in the Summit League Tournament, pending the outcome of Western Illinois' two remaining meets.  The Leathernecks must win both of their remaining Summit League matches to make the tournament, one of which comes against the 5-0 reigning Summit League champion Denver Pioneers.  One loss would guarantee the Jags a spot.
 
IUPUI was able to celebrate their victory with a 4-3 win over non-division I opponent DePauw that same night.  More information will be made available upon the final Summit League standings and seeding for the tournament.
 
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