Buchanan Named ITA South Central Region Player to Watch Following Historic Season

5/19/2025 12:04:00 PM | By: Rachel Weaver

Emily Buchanan, a sophomore standout for DBU Women's Tennis, has been named the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) South Central Region Player to Watch, following a season filled with milestone accomplishments, undefeated dominance, and leadership on and off the court.

The Jackson, Mississippi, native capped off the regular season with a perfect 21-0 singles record, competing primarily at line five. She extended that mark to 25-0 overall as DBU advanced through postseason play. In doubles, Buchanan and teammate Jenna Payne compiled a stellar 22-4 record, emerging as one of the most consistent and reliable pairings in the region. Her individual accolades reflect her exceptional performance and sportsmanship throughout the 2025 season. Buchanan was named both the Lone Star Conference Women's Tennis Player of the Year and the LSC Sportsmanship Player of the Year, announced during the LSC Tennis Championships Reception in Arlington, Texas. She also earned First-Team All-Conference honors in singles and received honorable mention in doubles.

Buchanan's season was defined not only by her undefeated record and key wins but also by the poise, humility, and consistency she displayed in high-pressure moments. Her on-court excellence was further recognized with selection to the LSC All-Tournament Team, following her pivotal role in leading DBU to its first-ever Lone Star Conference Tournament Championship and a historic run to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Division II National Championships.

The ITA Player to Watch Award is given to a player who has shown exceptional performance and is expected to make a significant impact in the seasons ahead. Buchanan's 2025 campaign leaves little doubt that she is one of the rising stars in Division II tennis, with an already-impressive résumé and a bright future ahead.

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