DALLAS (SMU) – The SMU men's tennis team signed two newcomers for the fall of 2024, Head Coach Grant Chen announced on Tuesday.

Signing with the Mustangs are Noah McDonald and Xavier Calvelo Jr, two of the nation's top 75 recruits for the upcoming 2024 class.

"I am thrilled to announce the addition of two top American five-star recruits for the upcoming fall," said Chen. "As we continue the progression and development of the team, recruiting remains as an essential pillar, especially upon entering a new conference."

McDonald, a native of Charlotte, North Carolina, comes to the Hilltop a five-star recruit and the ninth-ranked player in his state. McDonald is a 16's L2 national champion, 18's L2 finalist, and finished third in the 18's L2 doubles field. He also is a state champion and received Player of the Year, First Team All-State and First Team All-Conference accolades throughout his freshman and sophomore years of high school.

"I am so excited to come to SMU and be a member of this amazing team," said McDonald. "The coaches, team, and entire staff made me feel welcomed and home. I chose SMU because of the remarkable tennis and excellent academics. The university provides countless opportunities for me to thrive on and off the court. I am also very excited to compete in the ACC next year."

"Noah was a no-brainer," said Chen. "He fit in with our team culture and our philosophies aligned. He comes from a wonderful family with tremendous values and education. On the court, Noah is a great ball-striker and can play both singles and doubles. His visits to Dallas just reiterated the fit as he became familiar with the current team."

Calvelo Jr. joins the Mustangs as another five-star recruit based out of Las Vegas. Throughout his career, Calvelo Jr. has earned two Gold Balls for doubles play and has been crowned a 16's Nationals and Easter Bowl doubles winner. With his achievements, Calvelo Jr. ranks as high as No. 22 nationally and No. 1 in the state of Nevada.

"I am very excited to join the SMU tennis family," said Calvelo Jr. "SMU allows me to play tennis at a high level and achieve my academic dreams. I cannot wait to join the Mustangs."

"Xavier is a special talent who possesses some remarkable intangibles," said Chen. "From the first time I saw him compete at an ITF event, I knew he had the skill set to play high-caliber tennis. He trained at the famous No Quit Tennis Academy in Las Vegas, which puts a premium on his character and life skills. Xavier has had a lot of success, specifically in doubles, and we are excited for him to join the team."