Kansas City, MO – The University of the Cumberlands women's tennis team enters the 2026-27 season ranked No. 9 in the NAIA Women's Tennis Preseason Coaches' Top 25 Poll, as announced by the national office Friday. The Patriots climb six spots from last year's preseason ranking of No. 15 following one of the most successful seasons in program history.

Cumberlands capped off its historic 2026 campaign with a 17-6 overall record, advancing to the NAIA National Championship Quarterfinals for the first time in program history. The Patriots finished the year ranked No. 7 nationally, climbing six spots in the final NAIA Coaches' Poll.

The Patriots opened national tournament play with a dominant 4-0 sweep over No. 24 Bethel (Kan.) before defeating No. 8 SCAD Savannah 4-2 in the second round to secure their first-ever quarterfinal appearance. UC's historic postseason run came to an end against top-ranked Keiser (Fla.), falling 4-1 despite capturing the doubles point to take an early lead.

The Patriots' postseason success marked a significant milestone for the program, as UC recorded 17 victories and established itself among the top eight teams in the NAIA.

Cumberlands is one of two Mid-South Conference programs ranked inside the top ten, joining Lindsey Wilson (Ky.), which enters the season at No. 2. Cumberland (Tenn.) also represents the conference at No. 18, while Bethel (Tenn.) and Campbellsville (Ky.) received votes.

Defending national champion Keiser (Fla.) holds the top spot after finishing the 2025-26 season with a 24-1 record and capturing the national championship. Lindsey Wilson follows at No. 2, with Tennessee Wesleyan, Xavier (La.), and William Carey (Miss.) rounding out the top five.

With a historic postseason run behind them, the Patriots look to carry that momentum into the upcoming spring season and continue competing among the nation's top programs.

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