Georgia Tech standout thrives in innovative team format, highlighting the unique opportunities and financial benefits of the INTENNSE Challenge Series.
Atlanta, GA —Scarlett Nicholson has never been one to shy away from the big stage or from bringing her own spark to it. A junior standout, now playing Line #1 for Georgia Tech Women’s Tennis, Nicholson’s fierce energy, competitive spirit, and undeniable passion for the sport were on full display recently when she stepped into a new arena: the INTENNSE™ Challenge Series.

At first, the Alpharetta, Georgia native wasn’t sure if this new format, with its unique mix of team dynamics, innovative rules, and rapid-fire points, would suit her.

“I honestly didn’t think that I was going to have a lot of fun because of the format,” Nicholson says. “I’m very particular about how things are done. I like my routines. But then I stepped on court with my team and saw the arena and everything, and I thought, oh my gosh, this is amazing.”

It didn’t take long for the experience to win her over. The Challenge Series thrives on speed, bold shot-making, and team camaraderie, qualities Nicholson embraces.

“I realized quickly that the format really suits me. It’s fast-paced, there’s not too much time to think, and not too much time to get down on myself,” she explains. “That’s actually really good for me. And having a coach there gives it that college dual-match vibe, which I love. I like being told what to do and then executing it, and having teammates there to support me. It was super exciting.”

That high energy isn’t just for show. Nicholson’s fiery spirit has defined her tennis since childhood. “I feel like I’m playing my best when I’m a little bit angry and amped up, yelling and shouting,” she laughs. “That’s how my dad taught me to play. The fire is what gives me the competitive edge and makes me enjoy it all more.”

Nicholson joined Georgia Tech after a successful junior career and has been a consistent contributor for the Yellow Jackets. In her sophomore season, she gained significant dual-match experience, including important wins in ACC play and strong performances in doubles. Off the court, she’s just as driven, pursuing a major in Business Administration while earning All-ACC Academic honors, a testament to her discipline and work ethic.

The Challenge Series, however, offered Nicholson something even this seasoned competitor hadn’t experienced: the chance to battle a former Georgia Tech teammate in a team event on the opposite side of the net. In one of the event’s most dramatic storylines, Nicholson faced recent graduate and former doubles partner Kate Sharabura in women’s singles.

“I was a little nervous to play her,” Nicholson admits. “But then I got into return position, looked up, and saw her smiling at me. I thought, oh man, this is going to be so much fun. She’s one of my closest friends ever. We’ve lived together and played doubles together. There was no one better to compete against because she’s so crafty, and I know her and she knows mine.”

Despite their friendship, Nicholson’s competitive edge was clear. “As much as I love her, I was like, I kind of want to win this for my ego,” she grins. “And I knew she kind of had us in doubles, so I was thinking, okay, I’ve got to get singles.”

Their showdown was tight, with Nicholson’s team ultimately winning the women’s portion by just one point. But beyond bragging rights, matches like these carry real stakes in the Challenge Series, including prize money.

“There’s definitely a difference if you win your individual event,” Nicholson says. “You’re always going out there to win anyway, but knowing there’s financial support on the line makes it even more motivating. For women in particular, having another place where we can compete and earn is huge.”

Beyond the thrill of competition, Nicholson sees the Challenge Series as an essential step forward for athletes like her. It’s not just a chance to test her skills in a unique format but also a meaningful way to earn prize money and build her future in the sport. “It’s huge, especially for women,” she says. “This series gives us opportunities we might not find anywhere else.”

Nicholson is quick to highlight the professionalism and hospitality she experienced. “I’ve never felt so welcome at an event before,” she says. “You guys treated me like family. It felt like playing a home tournament. That makes you want to come back even more.”

She also found herself sharing the court in mixed doubles with her boyfriend, another unique twist the Challenge Series offers. “It was kind of surreal,” she says. “We’ve joked about wanting to play a Slam together one day, but we actually got to strategize and cheer each other on. It definitely brought us closer.”

Looking ahead, Nicholson is eager for more. “I’d totally do this every time I’m in town,” she says. “The atmosphere, the format, the people—it’s all amazing. My dad’s already telling me I should have done it full-time!”

With her fierce energy and fearless approach, Scarlett Nicholson has found a new stage where she can shine and help redefine what’s possible for athletes balancing college tennis, professional dreams, and everything in between.