LIVINGSTON, Ala. –The Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) has released its final Division II national and regional rankings for the 2025 season, and the University of West Alabama women's tennis programs are celebrating a historic finish.
The University of West Alabama women's tennis team continues to make waves on the national stage, earning a program-best No. 6 national ranking in the latest ITA Division II rankings. In one of the most competitive regions in the country—with five of the nation's top 10 teams hailing from the same area—UWA also holds the No. 3 spot in the South Region.
The national recognition extends beyond team success, with multiple Tigers earning high marks in the individual and doubles rankings.
Shaira Rivera and
Alexa Milliam both cracked the top 20 in the national singles rankings, coming in at No. 18 and No. 19. Regionally, Rivera is ranked No. 9 while Milliam sits just behind at No. 10.
In doubles,
Shaira Rivera and
Valentina Mutilba achieved a historic milestone by earning the No. 1 national ranking—the duo became the first tandem in UWA History to finish the season with the No. 1 ranking in the country.
"We had a lot of players accomplish a lot this year, and for Shai and Valentina to finish number one is a great achievement," said head coach Jeff Beaman. "With the returning players and players coming in, I am excited for this upcoming year."
On the men's side, despite missing more than half the spring season due to injury,
Francisco Oliveira managed to secure a No. 70 national and No. 17 regional singles ranking, showcasing his impact and talent even in limited action. In doubles, the duo of
Afonso Portugal and
Tomas Almeida climbed to No. 30 in the national rankings and No. 10 regionally.
The 2025 ITA rankings not only recognize the Tigers' standout performances—they mark a turning point for the program. With a historic No. 1 national doubles finish, multiple top-20 singles players, and national recognition on both the men's and women's sides, UWA Tennis has firmly established itself among the Division II elite. As the Tigers look ahead, the foundation has been set for even greater success in seasons to come.
