Bucknell University Athletics
Bucknell University
Boston University (Semifinal)
Women's Tennis Falls to Top-Seeded Boston University in PL Semifinals
4/23/2016 6:51:00 PM | Women's Tennis
ANNAPOLIS, Md. – A bounce-back season for the Bucknell women's tennis team came to an end with a 4-0 loss to top-seeded Boston University on Saturday in the semifinals of the Patriot League Tournament. The fourth-seeded Bison, who advanced to the semifinals with a 4-2 win over Lehigh on Friday, closed their season at 16-9 overall.
The Bison's 16 wins were the most since 2005 and were a 10-win improvement over last season. They advanced to at least the semifinals of the conference tournament for the 11th time in the last 12 years.
Boston University won at No. 1 and No. 2 doubles on its way to securing the first point. The Terriers then clinched the match and a spot in the finals with victories at No. 2, No. 3 and No. 4 singles.
For the second straight year, the league's top two players had their match at No. 1 singles go unfinished. Boston University's Johanna Hyoty, the reigning Patriot League Player of the Year, took the first set 7-5 against Bucknell' Maria Cioffi, a three-time All-Patriot League selection. Last season, the two were tied at one set apiece before the Terriers locked up the fourth point.
Boston University has been one of the best teams in the league since joining prior to the 2013-14 season. The Bison have seen their postseason run come to an end with a loss to the Terriers in each of their three seasons in the Patriot League.
Cioffi wrapped up an outstanding career at Bucknell. She leaves the Bison as the program's all-time leader in singles wins with a record of 91-35 and in combined wins at 171-73. She also ranks third in doubles with a mark of 80-38.
Stephanie Pino also left her mark on the Bucknell women's tennis program, finishing with the 14th most singles wins (49-36), 10th most doubles victories (51-56) and the 13th most combined wins (100-91).
Boston University advances to the championship match, where it will look to win its third consecutive Patriot League title. The Terriers will play third-seeded Navy, which beat second-seeded Army West Point 4-1 in the other semifinal match.
Players Mentioned
