Texas women’s tennis has been on a winning streak, triumphing over various Big 12 rivals in recent weeks. Presently, the team holds the second spot in the Big 12 standings, with only Oklahoma State remaining undefeated in conference matches.

The team’s success can be attributed to its seasoned players taking to the court. Currently, out of the six players participating in singles matches, three are seniors and one is a graduate student. However, with many upperclassmen likely departing after this season, Texas has proactively secured the nation’s top-ranked recruiting class, as per the Tennis Recruiting Network.

This incoming class features standout talents like Maya Joint and Ariana Anazagasty-Pursoo from the class of 2024, both recognized as Blue Chip players, the highest distinction in tennis recruitment.

Head coach Howard Joffe expressed, “While there will inevitably be a learning curve for newcomers transitioning to college play, Maya and Ariana have the skills to compete at the top level of our lineup from the get-go. I anticipate them both making significant contributions right from the start.”

Maya Joint, originating from Grosse Pointe, Michigan, brings a wealth of talent to the already impressive Texas roster. Throughout her career, she has amassed numerous achievements, including 14 junior titles—seven in singles and seven in doubles. Additionally, she has been ranked as high as No. 2 in the nation by the Tennis Recruiting Network.

“I was looking for an experienced coach and proven program that could help me reach my goal of becoming a top professional player,” Joint said to  Texas Athletics.

Anazagasty-Pursoo, originating from Westbury, New York, boasts an impressive record with five junior titles to her name, including two doubles titles she clinched alongside her future teammate Joint. Currently, she holds the third position nationally in her recruiting class and is the top-ranked player in the Middle Atlantic region.

“I chose Texas because I feel that it is the best place to continue developing my game and to help me achieve my long-term goals,” Anazagasty-Pursoo said to Texas Athletics.

With the Longhorns poised for a promising future, it’s vital to examine the factors contributing to the anticipation surrounding this new class of players. Over the past four seasons, the Longhorns have enjoyed significant success, reaching their pinnacle with back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022—the first titles for Texas women’s tennis since 1995.

Currently, out of the four players remaining on the team who were part of at least one of those championship runs, three are potentially departing after this season. This includes Malaika Rapolu and Charlotte Chavatipon, who were integral members of Texas’ previous top-ranked recruiting class in 2020.

Joffe emphasized, “Over the past four years, we’ve consistently been at the forefront of national results, solidifying our program as one of the elite in the country and consistently drawing top talent.”

Presently, the Longhorns boast a 9–1 record in conference play, with an overall 16–4 record and a No. 8 national team ranking. As they approach the Big 12 tournament with only three matches remaining in the regular season, it’s imperative for the team to sustain their momentum to conclude the season on a high note.