Lansing Sun

Michigan State men's tennis player Ozan Baris finished as the national runner-up in the NCAA Individual Championships, losing to Columbia's Michael Zheng in a three-set match. The final score was 6-2, 4-6, 6-2 at Baylor's Hurd Tennis Center.

Baris made history for Michigan State by being the first player from the university to reach a national singles final and two national semifinals. Last spring, he lost in the semifinals to Filip Planinsek of Alabama, who went on to win the championship.

This year marked the first time that the NCAA Individual Championships were held in the fall instead of spring. In Sunday's match, Zheng won the first set 6-2 after a competitive start with three breaks in five games. Baris fought back to win the second set 6-4 but ultimately fell short as Zheng secured victory with another 6-2 set.

Reflecting on his performance, Baris said, "I was just playing to win a National Championship not just for myself but mostly for Michigan State, so that's kind of more of a heartbreak." He acknowledged Zheng's smart play and noted that he felt in control despite missing shots.

Baris is ranked No. 1 in ITA Individual Rankings and concluded his fall season with a record of 13 wins and four losses. Looking ahead to next year, he expressed excitement about competing with his team: "I'm excited to compete with the team in the spring and try to win a Big Ten Championship."

The Spartans will begin their spring season on January 17 against Kentucky at MSU Tennis Center.

Michael Zheng defeated Ozan Baris (MSU) with scores of 6-2, 4-6, and 6-2.