LC State Women's Tennis Joins NAIA Top 25

Warriors make largest jump in latest NAIA rankings, set to face tough competition at LSU Alexandria Invitational

Apr. 9, 2026 at 1:59am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a women's tennis match broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in navy, green, and gold, conveying the dynamic energy and competitive spirit of the sport.The LC State women's tennis team's rise in the national rankings reflects their dynamic, multifaceted play on the court this season.Kansas City Today

The LC State women's tennis team has made the largest jump in the latest NAIA Women's Tennis Top 25 poll, entering the rankings at No. 21. The Warriors have a 9-6 overall record and are 5-0 against NAIA competition, including a big upset victory over then-No. 20 Indiana Wesleyan. LC State will take a four-match winning streak into a competitive NAIA tournament this week in Louisiana, facing No. 14 Louisiana Christian, (RV) LSU Shreveport, and host No. 8 LSU Alexandria.

Why it matters

The Warriors' rise in the NAIA rankings is a significant achievement, as they look to build on their strong season and make a push for the GSAC Tournament and a potential bid to the NAIA national championships. Their success this season has been driven by contributions from multiple players, with three different athletes earning GSAC Player of the Week honors.

The details

LC State Women's Tennis made the largest jump of any team in the latest NAIA Women's Tennis Top 25 poll, entering the rankings at No. 21. The Warriors have a 9-6 overall record and are 5-0 against NAIA competition, including a big 6-1 upset victory over then-No. 20 Indiana Wesleyan. LC State will take a four-match winning streak into a competitive NAIA tournament this week in Louisiana, facing No. 14 Louisiana Christian, (RV) LSU Shreveport, and host No. 8 LSU Alexandria.

  • The 2026 GSAC Tournament is set for Apr. 23-25 in Glendale, Ariz., with a shot at an automatic bid to nationals on the line.
  • The Warriors open the LSU Alexandria Invitational on Thursday against Louisiana Christian at noon PT.

The players

Rayana Shah

One of three different LC State athletes who have been voted GSAC Player of the Week this season.

Gwyn Heim

One of three different LC State athletes who have been voted GSAC Player of the Week this season.

Naiara Montero

One of three different LC State athletes who have been voted GSAC Player of the Week this season.

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What they’re saying

“LC State Women's Tennis made the largest jump of any team in the NAIA rankings in this week's NAIA Women's Tennis Top 25 poll.”

— Alisha Alexander, Assistant Athletic Director-Sports Information

What’s next

The Warriors will take on No. 14 Louisiana Christian, (RV) LSU Shreveport and host No. 8 LSU Alexandria at the LSU Alexandria Invitational this week.

The takeaway

The LC State women's tennis team has emerged as one of the top NAIA programs in the country this season, making a significant jump in the national rankings and positioning themselves for a strong showing in the upcoming GSAC Tournament and potential run at the NAIA national championships.