Just less than a month ago, the UCLA men’s tennis team was on the verge of its first home loss of the season, down 3-2 against Baylor.
The Bruins’ final hope at victory rested on junior Marcos Giron and senior Clay Thompson, both of who were already down a set in their singles matches. But Julian Lenz delivered the finishing blow for Baylor when he handed Thompson his first singles loss of the season, clinching a 4-2 upset win for the Bears.
Although the loss was difficult to swallow, freshman Mackenzie McDonald called the defeat “a blessing in disguise.”
Since that heart-wrenching loss, the Bruins have won six games in a row. UCLA looks to continue that streak this weekend against Utah and Arizona.
No UCLA player has been defeated in singles play since the match against Baylor. Throughout their last six matches, opponents have scored a total of just two team points against the Bruins, both of which were doubles points.
“The loss was a good wake-up call,” said freshman Gage Brymer. “It tested us and showed us that we need to step it up a little bit.”
Singles play has been a strength for the Bruins all season, especially with nationally ranked players Marcos Giron (No. 3) and Clay Thompson (No. 1).
With victories over Washington, Oregon, No. 19 California and Stanford, UCLA is also undefeated in conference play, which is crucial for its placement in the Pac-12 tournament.
Wins over Utah and Arizona this weekend could put UCLA in good position to compete for the Pac-12 title.
“These are matches I think we should win,” said coach Billy Martin. “Although we are on the road and conditions are a little tough with altitude, so we can’t take anything for granted.”