DECATUR, Miss. — The doubles team of Ivanna De Gregorio and Shana Mao had a season to remember at East Central Community College, going 7-2 and finishing as doubles runner-up.

Their near-championship run was built on something that went beyond technique.

"Communication on and off the court was key for us," De Gregorio and Mao said. "We stayed together even through the bad and rough times, and we always hyped each other up."

That trust translated into precision. Assistant coach Ian marveled at their shot-making ability.

"They can really just put the ball wherever they want with a high percentage," he said.

Head coach Turner pointed to their daily habits as the foundation for their success.

"They have consistency in every aspect of the game," Turner said. "Practices, workouts and matches — they showed up every day and did not complain."

A 7-2 record and a runner-up finish reflect a duo that grew steadily throughout the season — connected on the court, dependable under pressure, and a driving force in the Warriors' lineup.