Defne Aslanbas Signs With Tennis Ahead Of 2024-25 Season

COLUMBIA, Mo. – University of Missouri head tennis coach Bianca Turati announced the signing of Defne Aslanbas on Tuesday, March 5. Aslanbas will join the team as a freshman in the fall of 2024. 

Coming to Missouri from Bursa, Turkey, Aslanbas made it to the J60 Antalya/ MTA Open quarterfinals. Additionally, since 2022, she has secured multiple wins at W15 and W35 tournaments in Antalya. The incoming freshman is a Turkey National Team member, having competed on U12 and U14 teams and was selected to the 16 & under squad in 2022. 

“Watching Defne play in person in Turkey, meeting her and talking to her parents really made me realize that she is the right fit for Mizzou and what I want to build here,” said Coach Turati on Aslanbas. “Defne not only has talent and potential but also an incredible passion for the game. She is feisty and highly motivated to get better every day. I cannot wait to have her here soon, start working with her, and see what Mizzou tennis can achieve with her on the team.” 

Aslanbas has a universal tennis rating of 9.22, a national ranking of 28 in Turkey, and was listed 19th on the 18-and-under list. 

“The Mizzou tennis team is in the best conference, where the competition is high, and I believe that will improve my tennis,” said Aslanbas on choosing Mizzou. “Coach Turati is very professional and successful, with great targets. Apart from tennis, Mizzou has many opportunities in terms of academics. It’s a great opportunity for me to play tennis and graduate from a reputable university at the same time.” 

UP NEXT

The Tigers will hit the road and travel to Auburn, Alabama. to compete against No. 11 Auburn University on Friday, March 8, with first serve set for 3 p.m. CT. After the match, Missouri will head to Alabama for a Sunday dual against the Crimson Tide. Action is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. CT.  

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