The University of Mississippi Athletics
Rebel Netter Ben Cousins Claims First Title
6/21/1999 | Men's Tennis
Nov. 2, 1997
NEW ORLEANS, La. -- Ben Cousins, a member of the No. 5 nationally-ranked Ole Miss men's tennis team captured his first collegiate title, Sunday, as he won the "B" Division singles title at the Tulane Invitational Tennis Tournament.
In the final, Cousins, a Memphis, native, downed Marshall Brown from 18th-ranked Middle Tennessee State 6-2, 6-3. On his way to claiming the title, Cousins defeated Barat Ugyar of New Orleans, Mark Pellerin of MTSU and David Blackburn of Ole Miss. He only lost one set in the entire tournament.
"Ben is one of the most improved players in the Southeastern Conference," Head Coach Billy Chadwick said. "His results at this tournament speak volumes for what can be accomplished through hard work and determination."
Cousins, a 1997 SEC Academic Honor Roll member and a 4.0 student, also teamed with Vicksburg native David Blackburn to capture the "B" Division doubles title. The two dominated Matt Walker and Belal Hamadeh of MTSU 8-2 in the final round.
The Rebels will now prepare for the Rolex Region III Championships Nov. 7-10 in Athens, Ga.
TULANE INVITATIONAL TENNIS TOURNAMENT -- New Orleans, La. "B" DIVISION SINGLES FINAL ROUND -- Ben Cousins (OM) def. Marshall Brown (MTSU) 6-2, 6-3. "B" DIVISION DOUBLES FINAL ROUND -- Cousins/David Blackburn (OM) def. Matt Walker/Belal Hamadeh (MTSU) 8-2.
