The setting at Atkins was certainly different during the JSM Challenger, as an international field of players battled on courts usually patrolled by student athletes.

Rowe overpowered his opponents in both matches as fans and teammates energized the senior from the sidelines. Though he eventually bowed out in the quarterfinals, seeing Rowe tough out two convincing victories elicited memories of the magic the Illini rode to the NCAA team championships last June.