(DURHAM, NC) - The Shaw University Men's Tennis Team began their defense of their five-time CIAA crown by taking on two NCAA Division I opponents - Winston Salem State and North Carolina Central on February 14. The Bears easily handled the Rams, but fell to the Falcons by identical 5-2 scores.

Against WSSU, the Bears took two of three doubles matches (scoring a single point under Division I rules), and four of six singles singles matches.

The outcomes were completely reversed against the Falcons, however, with NCCU taking two doubles matches and four singles matches.

Doubles partners Milos Stankovic (left) and Kalada Kienka were the stars for the Bears, winning both of their doubles matches, and going a combined 4-0 in the singles matches. They were the only undefeated players for the Bears.

The tennis team returns to the court on Saturday, February 20 at 1:30 p.m. against Barton. Both the men's and women's teams will be competing.

All Shaw home matches are played at Biltmore Hill Park at 2615 Fitzgerald Drive in Raleigh.