Box Score ROCKLIN, Calif. – Jessup University men's tennis showcased immense grit and determination in a hard-fought matchup against visiting California Lutheran University, ultimately walking away with a narrow 4-3 victory.
The Warriors secured the crucial doubles point early and leaned on standout, marathon performances at the top of the singles lineup to clinch the dual match.
Action kicked off with an intense battle for the doubles point. The veteran pairing of Tanner Sitanggang and Caleb Poling set the tone for Jessup, capturing a commanding 6-3 victory over CLU at the No. 2 spot. While the No. 3 team of Lucas Pham and Leo Pham dropped a tight 6-4 decision, the doubles point came down to a thriller on court one.
Under pressure, Joren Stevens and Mario Curiel delivered for the Warriors. The duo outlasted in a nail-biting tiebreaker, taking the match 7-6 (9-7) to secure the 1-0 overall advantage heading into singles play.
In singles competition, the Kingsmen responded fiercely in the middle of the lineup, but Jessup held the line where it mattered most.
At the No. 6 flight, Leo Pham provided a swift and dominant performance, cruising past Mateo Sonaglia in straight sets, 6-0, 6-3, to add a vital second point to the Warriors' tally.
The match of the day took place at the premier No. 1 flight. After dropping the first set in a tiebreaker, Joren Stevens showcased incredible resilience. Stevens roared back to win in a grueling three-set battle, claiming the victory 6-7, 6-2, 7-5.
At the No. 2 spot, Mario Curiel engaged in another absolute battle against CLU. After dropping the opening frame 3-6, Curiel fought back to take the second set in a tiebreaker (7-6). Heading into the deciding third set, which was retired by the Lutheran side sealing the match-deciding point for Jessup.
Cal Lutheran refused to go quietly, picking up three singles victories of their own to keep the overall score tightly contested.
The early advantage established in doubles and the late-match heroics at the top flights ensured the Warriors walked away with the 4-3 victory.
The Warriors will be back on home court for their next matchup against Chabot College on March 30th for 11:00 AM.
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About Jessup University Athletics Jessup University is a member of the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Division II and the PacWest Conference. For additional information regarding Jessup Athletics, visit www.jessupathletics.com; visit www.jessup.edu for more information on Jessup University. Follow Jessup Athletics on social media: Jessup University Athletics (Facebook) and @JessupAthletics (Instagram & X).
