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Saturday, April 25, 2026

Maryland Stuns No. 12 USC, Advances to Big Ten Semifinals in Historic Breakthrough

Ema Kovacevic delivers the clincher as Terps secure first conference semifinal berth since 1998, set showdown with Michigan


COLUMBUS, Ohio | In a defining moment for the program, the No. 7-seeded Maryland Terrapins women's tennis pulled off a statement victory Friday, knocking off No. 2-seeded and No. 12-ranked USC Trojans women's tennis, 4-2, to advance to the Big Ten Tournament semifinals for the first time in program history.

The Terps (18-6) delivered under pressure, combining dominant doubles play with clutch singles performances to secure their highest-ranked win in more than a decade — a milestone not reached since a 2013 victory over No. 11 Duke.

At the center of the celebration was Ema Kovacevic, who sealed the match in emphatic fashion. After grinding out a tense first-set tiebreak (10-8), Kovacevic surged in the second set, closing it out 6-2 to send Maryland into the semifinals — and into a mob of celebrating teammates.

Maryland’s path to victory began with a commanding doubles performance. The duo of Diya Challa and Emma Ghirardato upset USC’s nationally ranked pair, while Tamari Gagoshidze and Kovacevic followed with a decisive 6-2 win to secure the early 1-0 advantage.

In singles, the Terps showed resilience. Challa delivered a straight-sets victory on Court 4, while Gagoshidze added another key point on Court 6. Despite USC rallying with wins on Courts 2 and 3, Maryland maintained a narrow 3-2 edge heading into the decisive matches.

With the pressure mounting, Kovacevic answered the call — her composure and aggressive baseline play proving too much for USC’s Krisha Mahendran. Her victory rendered Ghirardato’s third-set battle unfinished, as Maryland clinched the match outright.

The win not only sends Maryland into the semifinals but also ties a program record with 18 wins in a single season. More significantly, it marks the Terps’ first appearance in a conference semifinal since 1998, when the program competed in the ACC — underscoring the magnitude of Friday’s breakthrough.

Next up, Maryland faces a formidable test against the No. 3-seeded Michigan Wolverines women's tennis in Saturday’s semifinal clash. With momentum firmly on their side, the Terps are now within striking distance of a championship berth.






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-- By James W. Thomas

© Copyright 2026 JWT Communications. All rights reserved. This article cannot be republished, rebroadcast, rewritten, or distributed in any form without written permission.

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James W. Thomas Radio Broadcaster | Media Executive | Creator & Host of “TELL IT LIKE IT IS” James W. Thomas is a seasoned radio executive, broadcaster, and media strategist with more than 25 years of experience in broadcasting, media sales, and multi-platform programming. He is the creator and host of the talk program “TELL IT LIKE IT IS,” a news-sports-talk platform built on the philosophy: “Be Informed. Not Influenced.” Thomas began his radio career in Detroit, where the foundation for TELL IT LIKE IT IS was developed at WWJ Newsradio 950 (CBS Radio) in 2000. At WWJ and later with Radio One Detroit, he earned a reputation as both a dynamic on-air personality and a high-performing Senior Account Executive, delivering strategic media solutions across radio, television, and digital platforms. His work combined consultative advertising strategy, strong community relationships, and a deep understanding of broadcast marketing. In 2008, Thomas expanded his leadership role at Clear Channel Radio (now iHeartMedia) in Beaumont, Texas, where he continued to drive revenue growth, client acquisition, and team mentorship while strengthening his broadcast presence. Since 2009, Thomas has served as General Manager and On-Air Host at WTLS Radio in Alabama, where he oversees all station operations including programming, sales, marketing, budgeting, regulatory compliance, and long-term strategic development. Under his leadership, WTLS has strengthened its multi-platform media presence and community engagement. As host of “TELL IT LIKE IT IS,” Thomas delivers compelling News-Sports-Talk programming built on research, preparation, and meaningful conversation. His show features interviews with political leaders, policy experts, athletes, and community voices while providing analysis of national and regional issues affecting listeners. In addition to his broadcasting leadership, Thomas maintains active professional involvement within the media and entertainment industry. He is a: Member – SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) Regional EMMY® Awards Judge – National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) Certified Radio Marketing Consultant (CRMC) – Radio Advertising Bureau Certified Digital Marketing Consultant (CDMC) – Radio Advertising Bureau Content Creators Certified Radio Marketing Consultant (CRMCCC) – Radio Advertising Bureau These certifications recognize advanced expertise in broadcast marketing strategy, audience development, digital media integration, and revenue growth for media organizations. From Detroit to Texas to Alabama, James W. Thomas has built a respected career defined by leadership, credibility, and a commitment to informative, engaging media. TELL IT LIKE IT IS BE INFORMED. NOT INFLUENCED.

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