BATON ROUGE — The Northwestern State Lady Demons hit the road Saturday, traveling to Baton Rouge for a weekend slate that includes a matchup against the LSU Tigers before closing the trip against Xavier (La.).

Last season marked one of the most successful campaigns in recent program history for NSU.

The Lady Demons claimed a share of the Southland Conference regular season title, finishing 8–1 in league play, and carried that momentum into the postseason. NSU advanced to the semifinals of the Southland Conference Tournament, pushing eventual champion Stephen F. Austin to the limit in a tightly-contested 4-3 decision.

As the Lady Demons return to competition this spring, third-year head coach Marcos Morelli emphasized that last year's success has set expectations, not guarantees.

"Last year set a standard, but nothing carries over automatically," Morelli said. "We're focused on daily work, accountability, and earning everything again."

Leading this year's lineup is Honoka Umeda, who has emerged as one of the program's premier competitors.

Umeda enters the weekend ranked No. 111 nationally in the Women's Tennis National rankings after an unbeaten fall campaign that included a championship run at the Diving Eagle Tournament.

Saturday's opener against LSU presents a formidable challenge.

The Tigers' depth and home-court advantage at the LSU Tennis Complex have historically proven difficult for visiting teams. NSU is aiming to break through in the series, having yet to earn a victory in 20 all-time meetings with LSU.

"You're back to the season, and we're approaching this weekend with a competitive mindset and respect for the level we'll face," Morelli said. "The focus is on intensity, discipline, and representing the university the right way."

Morelli noted that the weekend will serve as an early test of the team's mental and physical toughness.

"I want to see how we compete in tough moments and handle pressure," he said. "Staying composed and fighting through long points will be key."

Following the LSU match, the Lady Demons remain in Baton Rouge to face XULA.

NSU holds a 2–0 all-time record against the Gold, including a decisive 7–0 sweep in their most recent meeting during the 2023 season at the Jack Fisher Tennis Complex.

Adding intrigue to the matchup is freshman Valeria Ortega, who was a member of last season's Northwestern State squad and now competes for Xavier, setting up a reunion on the opposite side of the net.

"It will be a very demanding and physical weekend," Morelli said. "Both teams will test our toughness and our ability to compete at a high level."

With a blend of experienced leadership and emerging talent, the Lady Demons aim to carry the momentum from last season into a challenging road weekend that should provide a strong early-season measuring stick.