Phoenix, AZ, January 17, 2026
The Grand Canyon University women’s tennis program is gearing up for a promising season with a strong core of returning players. Anticipating key matchups against UC San Diego and Arizona State, the team looks to build upon recent successes, including three consecutive WAC titles. The Lopes aim to continue their championship trajectory through a blend of experience and new talent, strengthened by strategic investments in athletic facilities and holistic student-athlete development. GCU’s commitment extends beyond the courts, contributing to the regional economy and community engagement.
Phoenix, AZ — The Grand Canyon University (GCU) women’s tennis program is poised for a highly anticipated season, with a robust core of experienced players returning to the courts, setting ambitious goals for the Lopes in the 2026 campaign. This promising outlook for women’s tennis mirrors a broader period of athletic achievement and strategic growth for Grand Canyon University, a private Christian institution that continues to solidify its role as a significant contributor to the vibrant sports and economic landscape of Phoenix.
The return of key talent underscores a commitment to sustained excellence, a hallmark of GCU’s athletic philosophy that emphasizes not just on-court performance but also the holistic development of its student-athletes. As teams like women’s tennis prepare for competitive matchups, including an upcoming dual against UC San Diego and a challenging face-off with Arizona State on January 17, 2026, the energy surrounding GCU athletics is palpable, reflecting the university’s steadfast investment in its programs and the community.
Women’s Tennis Eyes Championship Season
Building on Recent Success
The Grand Canyon women’s tennis team enters the 2026 season with high expectations, largely due to the cohesion and talent of its returning core. This foundation was strategically built over the past year, which saw three January arrivals integrated into season play under a new head coach. The blend of established players and developing talent is expected to drive the team towards its objectives.
The Lopes have a history of success, having secured three consecutive Western Athletic Conference (WAC) titles and making multiple appearances in the NCAA Tournament. The team aims to continue this championship trajectory, leveraging the experience of its junior and sophomore players, alongside incoming talent. Upcoming matches against UC San Diego and Arizona State at the Whiteman Tennis Center in Tempe are crucial early tests for the Lopes, providing an opportunity to assess their readiness against strong regional opponents.
Lopes Basketball Programs Showcase Competitive Spirit
Recent Victories and Challenges
Beyond the tennis courts, Grand Canyon University’s basketball programs have recently demonstrated their competitive vigor. The women’s basketball team achieved back-to-back victories, including a decisive 65-51 conference triumph against Nevada at Global Credit Union Arena on January 14, 2026. This win, fueled by a crunchtime 19-2 run and a career-high 20 points from graduate guard Ale’jah Douglas, highlighted a significant shift in the team’s mindset and habits.
The men’s basketball team has also seen recent successes, securing wins against San Jose State with a score of 76-58 on January 10, 2026, and an earlier victory over Boise State, 75-58, on January 7, 2026. However, the team faced a tough challenge on January 13, 2026, falling 87-64 to New Mexico in Albuquerque, a game that saw Head Coach Bryce Drew ejected. This loss represented the Lopes’ largest margin of defeat in a regular-season game since January 2022, underscoring the demanding nature of collegiate competition. The Lopes are scheduled to host #23 Utah State on January 17, 2026, presenting another high-profile matchup for the team.
GCU’s Private Initiative Driving Growth in Phoenix
Economic Impact and Community Engagement
Grand Canyon University’s athletic success is intertwined with its broader institutional growth and significant economic impact on the Phoenix metropolitan area. As a private Christian university, GCU operates with a spirit of entrepreneurial initiative, contributing substantially to the local economy. The university’s operations generate an estimated $2.8 billion in economic output annually and support over 21,000 full-time equivalent jobs across Arizona. Previous studies have also highlighted a $2.1 billion economic impact in fiscal year 2020.
GCU’s strategic investments extend to its state-of-the-art athletic facilities, part of initiatives like the “GCU10in2” plan from 2016, which aimed to complete ten new facilities, including a dedicated tennis facility and a comprehensive student-athlete development center. These private investments enhance the student-athlete experience and provide top-tier venues for Phoenix AZ sports.
Beyond campus, GCU acts as an anchor institution in West Phoenix, actively engaging in community revitalization. Through partnerships with organizations like Habitat for Humanity and the City of Phoenix’s Neighborhood Safety Initiative, GCU contributes to rising property values and a safer environment in surrounding areas. The university has also launched various business enterprises, including a hotel and golf course, providing employment opportunities for graduates and local residents, further stimulating the economy through private enterprise and community self-reliance.
Cultivating Student-Athletes for Future Success
Beyond the Field of Play
A core tenet of Grand Canyon University’s athletic program is the holistic development of its student-athletes. The “Lopes for Life” program exemplifies this commitment, offering comprehensive programming focused on academic achievement, career readiness, personal growth, and community engagement, all while integrating spiritual development.
The Student-Athlete Development Center provides essential resources, including academic coordinators, tutoring assistance, and guidance on degree program selection, graduation planning, and career development. This initiative highlights GCU’s dedication to ensuring student-athletes are well-prepared for life after sports, embodying a responsible approach to collegiate athletics. Furthermore, GCU’s commitment to affordability and accessible education, including scholarships for low-income and first-generation college students, helps cultivate a diverse and high-quality student body that is prepared to contribute positively to society.
Arizona’s Evolving College Sports Landscape
A Dynamic Environment for Phoenix Athletics
The growth of Grand Canyon University’s athletic programs contributes significantly to Arizona’s dynamic college sports landscape. The state has witnessed a cultural shift where college athletics are increasingly central to community identity and economic vitality. From the large crowds at various Phoenix AZ sports events to the economic benefits reaped by local businesses during game days, the impact is substantial.
While institutions like the University of Arizona AZ athletics programs and Arizona State University have traditionally drawn significant attention, GCU’s rise offers a compelling example of how private universities can foster competitive excellence and contribute to the broader collegiate ecosystem. The enthusiasm for college football in Phoenix and across the state, alongside basketball and tennis, underscores a statewide appreciation for athletic competition and the development of young talent. This competitive environment, driven by individual initiative and institutional investment, provides diverse opportunities for student-athletes and engaging entertainment for fans.
Grand Canyon University’s athletic programs, propelled by returning talent and a foundational commitment to student-athlete success and community engagement, continue to elevate the profile of Phoenix AZ sports. The dedicated efforts of coaches, athletes, and university leadership, supported by a model of private investment and responsible growth, are yielding impressive results on the playing fields and in the community. As the women’s tennis team and other Lopes programs embark on their respective seasons, their pursuit of excellence reinforces the value of spirited competition and local pride.
Local residents and businesses are encouraged to support these student-athletes, attend games, and engage with the university’s community initiatives. Such involvement not only fosters a stronger athletic tradition but also contributes to the continued prosperity and vibrancy of the greater Phoenix area. Your engagement helps solidify GCU’s role as a beacon of athletic and community achievement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Grand Canyon University women’s tennis team’s goals for the 2026 season?
The Grand Canyon University women’s tennis team has high goals for the 2026 season, supported by a strong core of returning players.
When are the Grand Canyon University women’s tennis team’s next matches?
The Grand Canyon University women’s tennis team is scheduled to play UC San Diego and Arizona State on January 17, 2026.
What were the recent results for the GCU women’s basketball team?
The GCU women’s basketball team achieved a 65-51 conference victory against Nevada on January 14, 2026, marking back-to-back wins.
What was the recent outcome for the GCU men’s basketball team against New Mexico?
The GCU men’s basketball team lost 87-64 to New Mexico on January 13, 2026.
What is the estimated annual economic impact of Grand Canyon University on Phoenix?
Grand Canyon University’s operations generate an estimated $2.8 billion in economic output annually and support over 21,000 full-time equivalent jobs in Arizona.
What is the “Lopes for Life” program at Grand Canyon University?
The “Lopes for Life” program at Grand Canyon University provides comprehensive programming focused on academic achievement, career readiness, personal development, community engagement, and spiritual growth for student-athletes.
GCU Athletics Snapshot: January 2026 Highlights
| Program | Recent Activity / Outlook | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Women’s Tennis | High Goals, Core Returns | Scheduled matches vs. UC San Diego & Arizona State (Jan 17, 2026). Historically achieved 3 consecutive WAC titles. |
| Women’s Basketball | Back-to-Back Wins | Defeated Nevada 65-51 (Jan 14, 2026). Demonstrated improved mindset and habits. |
| Men’s Basketball | Mixed Recent Results | Won vs. San Jose State 76-58 (Jan 10, 2026) & Boise State 75-58 (Jan 7, 2026). Lost to New Mexico 87-64 (Jan 13, 2026). Upcoming home game vs. #23 Utah State (Jan 17, 2026). |
| University Economic Impact | Significant Regional Contributor | $2.8 billion annual economic output in Arizona. Supports over 21,000 full-time equivalent jobs. |
| Student-Athlete Development | Holistic Support | “Lopes for Life” program focuses on academics, career, personal, and spiritual growth. Student-Athlete Development Center offers academic and career planning resources. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Arizona’s Higher Education Milestones and Achievements
University of Arizona Honors November Student-Athletes
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
