Lansing Sun

MSU sophomore Ozan Baris has made history as the first Spartan to reach the NCAA Singles Championships semifinals. The Okemos, Michigan native achieved this milestone after defeating Ohio State's Jack Anthrop with a score of 6-4, 6-1.

Ranked as the No. 8 seed in the tournament, Baris took control early in his match against Anthrop, securing breaks in the first set and maintaining a lead throughout. "I feel like from the start I had the hunger that I needed to and I started off really well," Baris commented on his performance.

Throughout the tournament, Baris has shown dominance, winning eight straight matches without dropping a singles match since March 10. His record stands at 32-6 for the season, and he has already secured All-American status for a second consecutive year.

In the upcoming semifinal match, Baris will face Alabama junior Filip Planinsek. Their previous encounter saw Baris narrowly losing in a tiebreaker. The semifinal is scheduled for 11 a.m. ET and will be available on ESPN+ and Track Tennis.

Assistant Coach Mike Flowers praised Baris' disciplined play: "He was committed to a game plan that was going to put him in a position to win." Reflecting on Baris reaching the semifinals, Flowers added: "It's a testament to the work we've put in as a staff."

The winner of this year's NCAA Championships could earn entry into the US Open senior tournament if they are American.

Baris remains focused on his goal: "It doesn't mean much to me right now; we'll talk about that when I win the whole thing."