CARY, N.C. – After several attempts, the North Carolina Central women's tennis team advances to the MEAC Tennis Championship finals match after a 4-2 victory over No.6 Morgan State on Friday afternoon at the Cary Tennis Park.

The last time the Eagles played in the semifinals was in 2023, and six other times before the Maroon & Gray were unable to advance for a chance to play in the championship. Friday was different and historic.

"This moment is bigger than just a win – it's a testament to the heart, grit, and belief this team has shown all season," said head coach Sofia Rachi Cucalon. "Making it to the MEAC finals for the first time in program history is something we'll never forget, and I couldn't be prouder to lead this group of women."

The match started with a doubles advantage after Patricia Palencia and Gabriela Mejia Arenas earned a 6-3 win in No.1 Doubles, followed by Valeria San Miguel Soria and Mariana Zottoli's 6-2 victory at the No.2 slot.

Alejandra Hidalgo Vega gave the Eagles a 2-0 lead after defeating Morgan State's Hannah Smith 7-5, 6-3 in the No.1 position. The Bears would eventually notch their first point in No.3 Singles.

NCCU added the next score after San Miguel Soria's three-set thriller over MSU's Lauryn Hall in the No. 2 slot. MSU would make things interesting with a No.5 Singles win to make the score 3-2.

Shortly after, Palencia clinched the match with 6-2, 7-5 sets against her No.4 opponent as a wave of emotions flowed with the rest of the Eagles storming the court to celebrate.

"They've earned every bit of this," exclaimed Rachi Cucalon. "I am so proud of my team and I am so excited for tomorrow and the future of NCCU tennis!"

NC Central returns to action for a shot at the MEAC crown on Saturday, April 26, facing No.1 South Carolina State as the two-seed. First serve is scheduled for 9 a.m. at the Cary Tennis Park and will also be streamed live on ESPN+.

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