Exciting Times for Pepperdine Men’s Tennis in Starkville
The sun is shining a little brighter for the Pepperdine Waves men’s tennis team as they gear up for a thrilling new season! The team announced that they will be participating in the highly anticipated Intercollegiate Tennis Association Kickoff Weekend, set to take place from January 24-27, 2025, in Starkville, Mississippi. This regional clash promises to be nothing short of exhilarating.
Seeds Set and a Tough First Match
The Waves have been seeded as the 4-seed in the Starkville Regional. Their first challenge? A match against the 1-seed and host team, Mississippi State. The rest of the competition includes NC State as the 2-seed and LSU taking the 3-seed position. It’s an all-out showdown as all four teams made it to the NCAA Tournament last May, showcasing their talent and determination. With such a competitive lineup, fans are in for an exhilarating weekend of tennis.
A New Tournament Format
Next season brings exciting changes, including a revamped tournament format where a total of 56 teams will battle it out across 14 host sites. This fresh approach sets the stage for fierce competition as the teams vie for a place in the prestigious final site of the ITA National Indoor Championships jointly hosted by Baylor and SMU in February 2025. It’s the perfect opportunity for teams to showcase their skills on a national stage!
A Historical Comeback
This will mark Pepperdine’s first appearance at the ITA Kickoff Weekend since 2023, when they faced tough competitors like Texas A&M and Georgia Tech at the Palo Alto Regional. Historically, the Waves hold a 2-3 record against Mississippi State, but they haven’t faced off since 2003, making this matchup even more intriguing. Fans are eagerly anticipating how this storied rivalry will unfold on the courts next January.
Connection to Starkville
The Waves have a connection with Starkville through current associate head coach Tassilo Schmid, who played collegiately at Mississippi State for two seasons. This personal connection could spark a fire in the Waves as they aim to bring home a win.
Season Goals on the Horizon
Pepperdine is determined to make it to the NCAA Tournament for the fifth consecutive time in the 2024-25 season. The Waves had a solid record of 14-12 last season and shared the West Coast Conference regular-season title. With such a strong foundation, fans are hopeful that the team will bring their A-game and showcase their skills in Starkville.
A Bright Future Ahead
The buzz surrounding the Pepperdine Waves men’s tennis program is unmistakable. With upcoming challenges, a fresh format, and an eager team, there’s plenty to look forward to in the coming months. As the Waves prepare to take on Mississippi State and the rest of the Starkville Regional, supporters can expect a season filled with ambition, camaraderie, and thrilling tennis action.
