USC Men’s Tennis Set for Early-Season Test vs. No. 8 San Diego
LOS ANGELES - The Trojans are off to a strong start, and now the level of competition is about to rise. No.
19 USC men’s tennis returns to David X. Marks Tennis Stadium this Sunday for a marquee early-season showdown against No.
8 San Diego - a final home tune-up before the ITA Kickoff Weekend.
At 2-0 to open the spring, USC is doing exactly what you want to see from a team with postseason aspirations: building chemistry, stacking wins, and getting contributions up and down the lineup. Under the guidance of seventh-year head coach Brett Masi, the Trojans are showing signs of a squad that’s deeper and more balanced than it’s been in recent years.
One of the biggest reasons for that early momentum? Freshman Max Exsted.
The Minnesota native has wasted no time making his presence felt, earning Big Ten Freshman of the Week honors after a standout collegiate debut. His energy and poise on court have added a new dimension to USC’s lineup - and for a team already loaded with experience, that’s a dangerous combination.
This Sunday’s match is more than just a regular-season clash - it’s a measuring stick. San Diego, ranked No. 8 nationally, is making its spring debut and brings a talented group into Marks Stadium. The Toreros feature a nationally ranked doubles team in Adrien Berrut and Lambert Ruland (No. 71), and while they haven’t played a dual match yet this year, their pedigree speaks for itself.
For USC, it’s the last chance to play in front of the home crowd this month. And the Trojans are making it worth fans’ while - admission is free, and those in attendance can grab complimentary pizza and t-shirts (while supplies last). Just a heads-up: the clear bag policy will be in effect.
First serve is set for 1 p.m. PT, and fans can follow along with live scoring and video through the Playsight app.
With momentum building and a top-10 opponent coming to town, Sunday’s matchup is shaping up to be an early-season litmus test for a USC team that looks ready to take the next step.