Men’s Tennis Edges Emory in Thriller as MCC Opens Wanda McPhail Tennis Courts

Two MCC men's tennis players walk together along the sideline between points, one holding a tennis ball and both carrying rackets. They share a relaxed, cheerful moment during the match.
Two MCC men's tennis players walk together along the sideline between points, one holding a tennis ball and both carrying rackets. They share a relaxed, cheerful moment during the match.
February 16, 2026

MERIDIAN, Miss. — The Meridian Community College men's and women's tennis teams christened the brand new Wanda McPhail Tennis Courts at the Citizens National Bank Sports Complex on Friday, hosting Oxford College of Emory University in the official home opener.

In front of a strong home crowd, Head Coach Tavis Rieger led his Eagles into battle against nationally ranked competition in what marked a milestone day for the program and its new home facility.

The Lady Eagles, ranked No. 23 in the ITA, faced a tough challenge against No. 10 ranked Emory. Meridian fell 8-1 in team play, with the lone victory coming from the doubles pairing of Daisi Kukuljan and Elizabeth Shirley.

Despite the final score, Rieger was encouraged by the fight his team displayed.

"The women played strong tennis and had our opportunities in places and came up a little short across the lines," Rieger said.

On the men's side, the No. 18 ranked Eagles delivered a thrilling 5-4 victory over No. 24 Emory in a tightly contested match that came down to the final point of the evening.

Meridian picked up key momentum in singles competition with Jared Escobar, Daniel Espin and Ned Simpson each securing wins.

In doubles play, Escobar and Espin earned a win, while teammates Simpson and Gavin Robles added the needed doubles victory to give the Eagles the edge.

"It was a good strong team victory in a tight match on the men's side," Rieger said. "We battled to the final point of the night. Emory had a lead and Ned and Gavin responded to close it out and that point ended up being the deciding point for the team victory."

The victory marks an important early-season result for the men's program as they continue to climb the national rankings.

Meridian will return to the courts Monday at 1 p.m. when the Eagles host Marion Military Institute at the Wanda McPhail Tennis Courts.

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