Kulikov/Valdes Punch Ticket to Quarterfinals

ORLANDO, FLA.--USC's top seeded duo of Angela Kulikov and Rianna Valdes defeated Gonzaga's Graciela Rosas/Sophie Whittle 6-1, 6-4 in the Round of 16 at the NCAA Doubles Championships on Wednesday (May 22) at the USTA National Campus. With the victory over the No. 15 ranked Bulldogs, the Women of Troy advance to the Quarterfinals.

"Winning a round here at the NCAA Tournament is a big deal every time it happens because these are the best players in the country," said head coach Alison Swain. "Angela and Rianna are playing really confidently right now, and they're trusting their training. It's great to be able to see them execute their game plan, and we're looking forward to more Trojan doubles tomorrow!"

After going up 3-0 in the first set, the Bulldogs broke the Trojans to win the next game. USC responded by decisively winning the next three games to claim the first set 6-1. Gonzaga showed tenacity in the second set as they tied up the score early at 2-2. USC climbed ahead 4-2, but the Zags broke them to make it 4-3. Kulikov/Valdes had a strong game to extend their lead to 5-3, but Rosas/Whittle fought hard to put another game on the board at 5-4. The Trojans finished the set with a powerful serve by Valdes to win 6-4 and close out the match.

No. 1 ranked Kulikov/Valdes will challenge Tulsa's No. 14 ranked Oklalova/Ploner tomorrow afternoon (May 23).

Players Mentioned

Angela Kulikov

Rianna Valdes