Tigers Roar in Baton Rogue: No. 2 LSU Stuns No. 1 Oklahoma in NCAA Gymnastics Final

With a roaring crowd of 13,386, the third-largest in program history cheering them on, the Tigers delivered a performance for the ages. It wasn't just a victory; it was a statement.

A Start to Remember

From the opening rotation, LSU set the tone. The Tigers soared on vault, posting a season-high 49,600, led by freshman Kailin Chio's explosive 9.95 and Haleigh Bryant's near-flawless 9.925. Oklahoma, usually dominant on the uneven bars, faltered under the pressure. Despite a standout 9.95 from freshman Lily Pederson, the Sooners found themselves trailing early at 49.600-49.425.

"From the first event, you could feel it. This team was locked in. The energy in this building was unreal, and our athletes fed off of it."

Jay Clark

A Battle to the End

The Sooners fought back, using their strong floor rotation to briefly take the lead. Fifth-year senior Audrey Davis and freshman Elle Mueller each posted 9.900s, and Faith Torrez anchored with a dazzling 9.950. Oklahoma's 49.575 on floor propelled them ahead at 148.425-148.350 heading into the final rotation.

But when it mattered most, the Tigers refused to back down.

LSU delivered a masterclass on the floor, posting a dominant 49.700 to seal the victory. Chio, Bryant, and Amari Drayton all posted 9.950s, ensuring that the Sooners' late struggles on beam would prove costly. A critical wobble from Keira Wells (9.575) and a subpar 9.825 from Davis sealed Oklahoma's fate, and the Tigers stormed to victory in front of their home crowd.

Kailin Chio Shines Bright

Freshman sensation Kailin Chio continued her phenomenal season, clinched her third consecutive all-around title with a 39.725. She delivered a near-flawless meet, showcasing power on vault, elegance on beam, and precision on floor.

"This was a dream night. Competing in front of this crowd, against an incredible Oklahoma team, and coming out on top...it doesn't get better than this."

Kailin Chio

A Defining Moment

Friday night's win wasn't just about bringing home a big trophy for the LSU women's gymnastics team, they have now etched their status as back-to-back victories, sending a clear warning to the competition. Oklahoma has been the gold standard for years, setting the benchmark for excellence in collegiate gymnastics. But on this night, the Tigers proved they belong in that conversation.

With this win, LSU hands Oklahoma its first loss of the season and sets the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable SEC Championship showdown on March 22 in Birmingham.

For now, though, the Tigers will savor the moment, a night when they roarer the loudest, stood the tallest, and left no doubt that they are a force to be reckoned with!

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