NATCHITOCHES — Northwestern State tennis returns to the Jack Fisher Tennis Complex against an unbeaten South Alabama squad that has opened the season in dominant fashion. 

First serve is scheduled for 1 p.m. Friday at the Jack Fisher Tennis Complex. 

The Lady Demons (4–2) enter the contest coming off a 5–2 victory over Tyler Junior College, a match that showcased both depth and resilience.  

NSU secured the doubles point before claiming four singles victories, continuing a recent trend of building early momentum. 

Head coach Marcos Morelli emphasized that doubles will once again be critical against a South Alabama team that has controlled the early stages of matches this season. 

"South Alabama is a great team with a big tennis history," Morelli said. "Whoever takes the doubles point will have an important lead." 

NSU has emphasized growth in doubles play, and that progress has translated into confidence across the lineup. 

"We talk about the importance of having three doubles pairs and six singles positions that will compete hard from start to finish," Morelli said. "Every match is an opportunity to get better at that." 

Saturday's challenge will be significant. 

USA (4–0) enters with convincing wins over Southern (7–0), West Alabama (7–0), West Florida (5–2), and Alabama State (6–1). In its most recent outing, the Jaguars secured the doubles point with 6–0 and 6–2 victories at the No. 2 and No. 3 positions. 

In singles, USA has displayed depth throughout the lineup. Rio Maeda earned a 6–1, 6–2 victory at No. 1, while Cristina Tchanichev posted a straight-set win at No. 3.  

Jade Marie and Kenza Elakili secured decisive victories at the lower positions, and Manal Ennaciri closed out a three-set match at No. 2 in a match tiebreak. 

The Jaguars have consistently established control in doubles and carried that momentum into singles competition. 

For NSU, maintaining composure and competing from first serve to final point remains the focus. 

Morelli also noted the importance of defending home court as the Lady Demons prepare for one of their toughest tests of the season. 

"Playing here at home is a privilege," he said. "It's a great opportunity for our community to come and support the Lady Demons, and for our players to feel that home-court advantage."