The fifth week of NCAA women’s gymnastics brought historic performances, thrilling competitions, and remarkable individual achievements.
From LSU’s impressive team score to Jordan Chiles’ perfect 10 on floor, this week was packed with excitement and memorable moments.
Let’s dive into the key highlights, top scores, and standout storylines from this action-packed weekend.
LSU Tigers Roar with a 198
LSU made headlines by becoming the second team this season to score a 198, following the Florida Gators’ achievement in Week 4.
The Tigers posted an impressive 198.000 in their home victory over Missouri, who scored 197.175.
This remarkable performance solidifies LSU’s position as a top contender this season.
LSU dominated the meet, taking home the all-around title and three of the four event titles.
However, Head Coach Jay Clark expressed his disappointment with the absence of perfect 10s, suggesting that some routines deserved the perfect mark.
He emphasized the need for more 10s in the sport, comparing them to home runs in baseball.
Interestingly, Clark even praised Missouri’s Helen Hu, stating that her beam routine deserved a perfect score.
Top Individual Performers
Here are the top individual gymnasts based on their average scores after Week 5:
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- All-Around: Jade Carey (Oregon) – 39.694
- Vault: Nikki Smith (Michigan State) – 9.925
- Uneven Bars: Audrey Davis (Oklahoma) – 9.950
- Balance Beam: Jade Carey (Oregon) – 9.956
- Floor Exercise: Brooklyn Moors (UCLA) – 9.935
Jordan Chiles’ Perfect 10 on Floor
Jordan Chiles delivered a breathtaking floor routine that earned her a perfect 10, her second perfect score of the season.
After three consecutive weeks of scoring 9.95 or higher on floor, Chiles was finally rewarded with the perfect mark.
Her performance was a standout, featuring controlled passes and an outstanding double layout that brought the house down.
Chiles’ perfect 10 was one of the highlights of the first gymnastics meet broadcast live on FOX, where UCLA edged out Michigan State in a nail-biting finish.
The Bruins won by a tenth of a point, 197.300-197.200, in a meet that came down to the final rotation.
Broadcast Challenges
While the FOX broadcast was a historic moment for NCAA women’s gymnastics, it wasn’t without its challenges.
Some viewers criticized the scoring system, which made it difficult to see scores unless one was watching the bottom right-hand corner of the screen.
Additionally, there was some pushback on the scoring, with some arguing that Michigan State should have won the meet.
Kara Eaker’s Triumphant Return
Two-time world gold medalist Kara Eaker made a triumphant return to competition after leaving Utah following the 2023 season.
Eaker, who was considered retired, was quietly added to the Georgia roster and made her debut against Alabama.
Competing on her specialty apparatus, the balance beam, Eaker delivered a stunning routine that earned her a 9.925, the highest single event score of the meet.
Eaker’s performance helped Georgia secure a victory over Alabama for the first time since 2021, with a final score of 196.975-196.575.
Her return to competition and impressive performance on beam were a testament to her skill and determination.
Abbey Scanlon’s College Debut
California senior Abbey Scanlon made her college debut in the anchor spot on beam against NC State, and she did not disappoint.
Scanlon’s routine earned her a 9.95, winning the event title and tying for the highest score of the night.
This moment was particularly special as it marked Scanlon’s first competitive routine in nearly three seasons.
Scanlon’s performance was a heartwarming moment that highlighted the passion and dedication of college gymnasts.
Her teammates celebrated her achievement, crowding around her with hugs and cheers.
It’s moments like these that make college gymnastics so captivating and inspiring.
Key Takeaways
The fifth week of NCAA women’s gymnastics was filled with remarkable performances and historic achievements.
LSU’s impressive 198 and Jordan Chiles’ perfect 10 on floor showcased the incredible talent and dedication of these athletes. Kara Eaker’s return to competition and Abbey Scanlon’s memorable debut added to the excitement and highlighted the resilience and passion of these gymnasts.
As the season progresses, fans can look forward to more thrilling competitions and standout performances.
Stay tuned for the latest updates and rankings as the journey to the national championships continues.
For a detailed recap of Week 5, including top scores and key storylines, visit Gymnastics Now.
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