Lansing Sun

MSU sophomore Ozan Baris has been named to the ATP Next Gen Accelerator and USTA Collegiate Summer Team, in addition to receiving two ITA Midwest Region awards on Wednesday.

"Ozan is one of six players to be selected to the ATP Next Gen Accelerator and USTA Collegiate Summer Team professional development programs!" tweeted Michigan State Men's Tennis.

The Okemos, Mich. native received the Intercollegiate Tennis Association Midwest Region Player to Watch award unanimously, as well as the region's Arthur Ashe Leadership and Sportsmanship honor. These accolades follow a season where he reached the NCAA Singles Championships semifinal and led MSU to its most successful team season, including its first NCAA Tournament win in program history.

Among his recognitions, the selections for the professional development teams are particularly notable. Baris is one of only six men in college tennis chosen for the USTA Collegiate Summer Team. This training program aims to help top American college players transition into professional tennis through a team-oriented environment facilitated by USTA Player Development. Participants are eligible for travel grants to USTA Pro Circuit events and coaching support during the summer.

Similarly, the ATP Next Gen Accelerator program seeks to enhance development pathways for top American collegiate players. Baris is among 21 players nationally who will receive up to eight Accelerator Spots at ATP Challenger Tour 50 and 75 tournaments, providing main draw opportunities during both the collegiate off-season and parts of the fall season.

Historically, these professional development programs have helped college tennis standouts enter the PIF ATP top-500 world rankings. Baris is notably the first Spartan ever selected for either program.

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