In a momentous victory, the 16th-seeded Tennessee women’s tennis team put an end to top-ranked Oklahoma State’s impressive 29-match winning streak. Securing a 4-2 win, they advanced to the NCAA Elite Eight for the first time since 2010, in an exciting match held at Greenwood Tennis Center.

This historic win marked the Cowgirls’ first defeat since May 6, 2023, breaking their longest winning streak in program history. It was a significant achievement for the Lady Volunteers as they secured their spot in the Elite Eight for the third time in program history. Notably, they accomplished this by defeating a top-ranked seed in the postseason for the first time ever.

Head coach Alison Ojeda expressed her excitement and pride in the team. “This team has heard us say it all semester: you have a unique quality. The game of tennis won’t be what separates us. We want to be together during important times. It is in our hearts. That is what you witnessed against Duke, and that is what you will witness once more on Friday. When you arrive there as a team, win or lose, you give yourself permission to perform better. I am ecstatic beyond measure.”

Despite playing a strong doubles point, Tennessee (21-7, 9-4 SEC) was unable to overcome Oklahoma State (29-1, 16-0 Big 12). The only doubles win came from Esther Adeshina and Alana Wolfberg, who defeated Ayumi Miyamoto and Raquel Gonzalez, 6-3. The No. 3 partnering of Anastasiya Komar and Ange Oby Kajuru defeated the No. 11-ranked tandem of Sofia Cabezas and Elza Tomase 4-6. Additionally, Safiya Carrington and Kristinia Novak defeated Catherine Aulia and Lauren Anzalotta 4-6.

The Lady Vols took a 1-0 deficit and used a comeback to tie the game. Wolfberg was the first to declare victory after her opponent on court three retired owing to a medical forfeit. Aulia defeated Safiya Carrington, ranked 72, 6-4, 6-1. With a 6-4, 6-3 victory, Adeshina put an end to Kristina Novak’s match, her only setback of the year.

Adeshina remarked, “It means everything, and we love fighting for each other.” “Everyone has faith in one another. When we played elite teams last year, Alison (Ojeda) told me that we thought we had a chance but weren’t expecting to win. We have, I believe, expected to win these matches today and throughout the season. That’s what transpired today.”

After dropping the opening set, No. 14 Cabezas secured the victory by unexpectedly defeating No. 18 Anastasiya Komar in an exciting match. In a tiebreaker, she fought back and won 2-6, 6-1, 7-6 (6).

“I’m ecstatic,” Cabezas declared. I just want to keep going because these girls are like family to me. I have no desire to quit this team. My goal is to play for as long as I can. I am ecstatic right now. This group is capable of defeating anybody.”