Wesson, Miss. — In their last regular-season matches, Northwest Mississippi Community College’s men’s and women’s tennis teams fell to Copiah-Lincoln Community College. The women’s team lost 5-4, while the men’s team was defeated 6-3 Friday at the Co-Lin Tennis Complex, according to school officials.
Northwest’s women’s team led in doubles, winning two of three courts, but only secured two singles victories. The match was decided in the final singles matches, with the outcome hanging in the balance. Despite the loss, the team highlighted the performance of Brooke Kicker and Ava McCain, who won their third straight doubles match, each by a 9-7 score, according to team reports.
The men’s team also struggled in singles and doubles, winning only twice on the singles courts. Sophomore Jordan Mitchell was a bright spot, earning his third consecutive set victory and providing leadership for the team, officials said.
Both teams will compete in the NJCAA Region 23 Playoffs, starting Thursday in Ellisville, hosted by top-seeded Jones College. The women’s team, seeded fourth, will face Hinds Community College, the fifth seed, at 10:30 a.m. Thursday. The men’s team, also seeded fourth, opens against Southwest Community College on April 16. Both teams will play their semifinal matches Friday and championship matches Saturday.
Head coach Ryan Mounce expressed optimism about the postseason opportunities. “This group is starting to play their best tennis at the right time and we still have a lot to play for,” he said. Fans can follow updates on the teams at nwccrangers.com or through the college’s social media channels.
