The Columbia men's tennis team is set to join an elite group of teams competing at the prestigious LSU Invitational this weekend. The Lions will face off against powerhouses like LSU, San Diego, Tennessee, TCU, and Tulane, in a tournament that promises to showcase the best of collegiate tennis.

Elevating the Game: Columbia Lions Seek to Soar at the LSU Invitational

A Field of Champions

The LSU Invitational boasts an impressive lineup of teams, with four of the participants finishing in the Top 20 of the final ITA Rankings at the end of the 2024 spring season. Columbia, ranked No. 8, will be up against the reigning national champion TCU, who finished at No. 1, as well as Tennessee (No. 7) and San Diego (No. 19). This tournament promises to be a true test of the Lions' mettle, as they face off against some of the most formidable programs in the country.

Strength in Numbers

Columbia is sending a formidable contingent to Baton Rouge, with Thanaphat Boosarawongse, Jordan Chang, Hugo Hashimoto, Andrew Kotzen, Nicolas Kotzen, Sachin Palta, Jayden Templeman, Max Westphal, Jung Hee You, and Michael Zheng all making the trip. This depth of talent will be crucial as the Lions navigate the challenging tournament schedule, with the team's versatility and depth set to be a key advantage.

Preparing for the Final Stretch

The LSU Invitational serves as a crucial stepping stone for the Columbia men's tennis team as they gear up for the final events of the fall schedule. This weekend's tournament will provide the Lions with valuable experience and an opportunity to fine-tune their skills before the ITA Sectional Championships in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and the NCAA Championships in Waco, Texas.

Securing a Spot at the Big Dance

Two members of the Columbia team, Michael Zheng and Hugo Hashimoto, have already secured their spots in the NCAA Championships, set to take place in Waco, Texas, starting November 19. Both players will compete in the singles bracket and team up for the doubles competition, representing the Lions on the national stage.

Staying Connected with the Lions

Fans of the Columbia men's tennis team can stay up to date on all the action by following the Lions on X (@CULionsMTEN), Instagram (@culionsmten), and Facebook (@ColumbiaAthletics). Live streaming and live scores for the LSU Invitational will be available through the LSU Athletics website, allowing supporters to follow the team's progress in real-time.The Columbia Lions are poised to make a statement at the LSU Invitational, showcasing their talent and determination against some of the best collegiate tennis programs in the country. With a deep roster, experienced leaders, and a hunger to succeed, the Lions are ready to soar to new heights and cement their place among the elite.