The Montana women’s tennis team lost to Montana State 6-1 on April 11 in Bozeman, ending a three-year winning streak over their rivals. Kelsey Phillips secured the Grizzlies’ only point with a singles victory and maintained her undefeated record in Big Sky Conference play.
This match was significant as it marked a shift in the rivalry between the two teams. The loss leaves Montana with a season record of 2-15 overall and 0-7 in conference play, while Montana State improves to 7-10 overall and 3-4 in the Big Sky.
Head coach Steve Ascher said, “Today was a challenging match for a young team. Bozeman is a tough road environment, and we need to take this result and understand what we need to do to be able to come back and change that result.” Ascher also praised Phillips: “Excited for Kelsey to continue her high level of competing to earn the win today. She is playing with great composure and understanding what needs to be done strategically to give herself the edge.”
In doubles play, Phillips partnered with Meghna Anand for a dominant win against MSU’s Stverakova/Wise pair, finishing 6-1. On court three, Kate Prichard and Kamila Slovakova tied their set at five games each before losing narrowly as MSU clinched both remaining doubles matches.
Phillips defeated Anna Wise decisively on court one in singles (6-2, 6-2). Anand won her first set against Angel Bean but ultimately lost after dropping the next two sets (7-6(3), 1-6, 1-6). The rest of Montana’s singles matches ended in straight-set losses.
Looking ahead, the Grizzlies will finish their season at home against Weber State on April 18 at Peak Racquet Club in Missoula.
