Some weeks are par for the course, and in terms of team results, week five was one of those weeks. The UCLA win over Michigan State was technically an upset by rankings, but with the teams nearly identical across other statistical categories, the matchup is more of a draw in terms of momentum. What’s heating up, however, is the freshman of the year race, where a mix of preseason favorites and surprise contenders is helping shape the top five. This week, we bring you a bonus section: freshman power rankings!
1. Oklahoma
Last Week: No. 1
The Sooners continue to dominate, with Faith Torrez and Jordan Bowers each scoring a 39.725 in the all-around to lead their team once again. Oklahoma sits comfortably atop the rankings, but the elusive 198 mark remains unchecked. Typically one of the first teams to hit that milestone, it feels like it’s just a matter of time as they continue their redemption tour. On top of that, we saw Kelsey Slade’s rookie debut on bars, adding to Oklahoma’s depth, now with nine gymnasts having competed this season.
2. Florida
Last Week: No. 2
Florida didn’t top its nation-leading score from week four, but week five still brought a tight victory over fellow championship contender Utah in a tri-meet at West Virginia. The win under pressure, after a previous close road loss, builds some momentum but isn’t quite enough to knock off the undefeated Sooners. We’re watching to see if Florida can stay consistent and challenge for that top spot.
3. LSU
Last Week: No. 3
LSU rebounded from its week four upset by becoming the second team in 2025 to hit 198, beating Missouri in an SEC clash. LSU’s been up and down so far, but with a dual against Oklahoma looming, it’ll need to find consistency. One bright spot: the return of KJ Johnson, whose stuck Yurchenko full helped ignite a four-stick vault rotation for the second-highest total on the event this year. This is the LSU vault lineup we’ve come to expect.
4. Michigan State
Last Week: No. 4
Michigan State holds the top vault score so far this season after sticking four of its six 10.0 start values for a nation-leading 49.600 at UCLA. It had a key Big Ten win within its grasp but faltered on beam, allowing UCLA to steal the win. However, holding their own in a challenging Pauley Pavilion and staying in the top five bodes well for the Spartans as they push forward toward a much-desired nationals berth.
5. Utah
Last Week: No. 5
Though Utah couldn’t pull off a win against Florida, staying close to such a strong team is a positive sign. The Red Rocks’ vault still needs work, but they’ve been dominant on beam, which has long been their hallmark. Led by Makenna Smith and Grace McCallum, Utah is shaping up to be a well-rounded championship contender. Watch for depth to continue to be its strength.
6. UCLA
Last Week: No. 6
Jordan Chiles’ floor 10 sealed a thrilling walk-off win in the first NCAA gymnastics meet aired on Fox, with the Bruins posting a stunning 49.800 on floor. While it was the event that secured the win, UCLA didn’t take top honors on the other three, identifying areas for improvement if it hopes to challenge the top teams moving forward, particularly on beam.
7. California
Last Week: No. 7
The Golden Bears continue to deliver solid performances and maintain their position as top contenders. Their ability to perform consistently across all events will be crucial as they aim to break into the top five.
8. Missouri
Last Week: No. 8
Despite a loss to LSU, Missouri remains a solid performer, hanging onto its spot in the rankings. Consistency across events will be key as it looks to climb higher.
Next Up: Georgia, Kentucky, Oregon State
Freshman Power Rankings
- Lily Pederson, Oklahoma
Pederson has emerged as the standout in Oklahoma’s star-studded rookie class, currently ranked seventh in the all-around nationally. The No. 4 overall recruit has yet to miss a routine, with a career-low of 9.750, and is excelling on beam, where she posted a 9.950 during opening weekend. Her consistent performances across all events have been critical in keeping Oklahoma atop the rankings. - Katelyn Jong, Auburn
There were questions about how Jong’s elite-level difficulty would translate to college, but she’s answered them all, competing in the all-around every week and ranking in the top 16 nationally. Jong has maintained much of her difficulty and is developing 9.9 consistency, making her the driving force behind Auburn’s success. - Kailin Chio, LSU
Chio started the season strong, averaging a 39.600 in the all-around after week two. Though she’s had a few hiccups since then, her first all-around title this week coincided with LSU’s 198, proving her importance to the team. Consistency is the next step for Chio, as she looks to help LSU push for a championship repeat. - Joscelyn Roberson, Arkansas
Roberson entered the season as one of the most high-profile freshmen and has delivered, sitting in the top 20 in the all-around. Known for her power on vault and floor, Roberson has room to grow on bars and with her Lopez vault but has nevertheless been remarkably consistent so far. - Aurélie Tran, Iowa
The Canadian Olympian has made an immediate impact for Iowa, breaking into the top 25 in the all-around and hitting 9.875 or better across all four events. Tran’s consistency and ability to perform under pressure make her a dark horse contender for nationals.
Next Up: Addison Fatta (Oklahoma), Rylie Guevara (Ohio State), Marissa Neal (Auburn), Macy McGowan (UCLA)
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Article by Brandis Heffner
