Stephanie Yakoff Commits to University of Michigan

The former Harvard standout joins the Wolverines as a graduate transfer.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Tennis

Stephanie Yakoff Commits to University of Michigan

Stephanie Yakoff, a graduate of Harvard University, has verbally committed to join the University of Michigan tennis program. She announced her decision to transition to the Wolverines via Instagram.

Why it matters

Yakoff arrives with extensive collegiate experience, having reached the NCAA Singles Championship Round of 32 last season. Her recruitment strengthens Michigan's roster as she prepares for her final year of eligibility.

Yakoff maintains a 56-22 career singles record and a 67-23 record in doubles play. She holds a Universal Tennis Rating of 10.81.

The players

Stephanie Yakoff

She is a tennis athlete and a graduate of Harvard University who has verbally committed to the University of Michigan.

University of Michigan

This is a public research university that maintains a prominent collegiate athletics department competing in the Big Ten Conference.

Harvard University

This is an Ivy League research university that operates a competitive intercollegiate tennis program.

The details

Before her time at Harvard, Yakoff excelled at the high school level in Fort Lee, where she secured three consecutive state singles titles. She has previously attained a career-high ranking of 49th in singles and 40th in doubles.

Yakoff was named NJ.com Player of the Year in 2019, 2021, and 2022.
The commitment announcement was made on October 23, 2026.
Yakoff is scheduled to begin her fifth college season in the fall of 2027.

Season Trajectory

Yakoff joins the program following her appearance in the NCAA Singles Championship, bolstering Michigan's depth for future postseason runs. Her move reflects a larger trend of high-performing athletes utilizing graduate transfers to maximize their final years of eligibility.

Adding a player with a 10.81 UTR provides Michigan with immediate veteran depth for their lineup. Her arrival will likely influence the team's standing as they look toward the fall 2027 season.

The takeaway

The addition of a proven graduate transfer helps programs secure immediate impact players for their lineups. Student-athletes often leverage the transfer portal to align their academic and athletic goals for their final season.