As a Power Four conference, the Big 12 draws talented athletes from across the country eager to represent its storied programs. Recruits step on campus ready for a new chapter and the chance to prove themselves, using the offseason to hone their form. There already exists profound talent within the Big 12, yet somehow there’s always room for more.
As lineups turn over and opportunities arise, let’s take a look at a few potential Big 12 freshmen who enter the NCAA ready to step in where their teams need it most.
Reese Nichols (BYU)
Nichols enters college boasting 2026 state and regional titles on vault. Competing a clean and consistent Yurchenko full, Nichols could help build the foundation of a strong lineup for the Cougars. She has also debuted a one and a half in competition before. Though we have yet to see how new head coach Natalie Broekman shapes the team, if Nichols can bring back her 10.0 SV vault, that will surely strengthen her chance to become a key contender.
Abygail MacKinney (Arizona)
A former four-star recruit, MacKinney is a hometown hero for Arizona. MacKinney is especially skilled on bars and holds the 2026 DP national title on the event. With a floaty straddle Jaeger, sharp handstands, and a solid double layout dismount, she will be a great option for the Wildcats on the event. In addition to bars, MacKinney is well-rounded across all events and should prove to be a valuable asset for Arizona.
Gabrielle Black (Utah)
Black’s background as a Canadian elite has given her high-level skills, endurance, and international competition experience that suit a typical Red Rocks’ pedigree. Competing recently at the 2026 Pan American Championships, Black qualified to the event finals on vault and floor. Though she doesn’t have any particular weak areas, she tends to excel the most on leg events. Her Yurchenko one and a half could be a strong component of the Red Rocks’ vault lineup, and with some classic college polish across the other events, Black has the potential to be a top contributor for Utah.
Adelle Speck (Arizona State)
Speck is a former four-star recruit headed to Tempe, Arizona, and could prove to be a staple for the Sun Devils on any event. She is a proficient and confident twister and particularly shines on floor. In addition, Speck has a college-ready bars routine, a range of skill options on beam, and a powerful front-entry vault. With her energy and prowess, Speck has a good shot at securing regular lineup appearances as a freshman.
Zaara Burnett (West Virginia)
Burnett is a former three-star recruit with overall skill, but stands out the most on bars and beam. Burnett could play a specialist role for the Mountaineers on these events, proven to be weaker for West Virginia in recent years. With a potential triple series and impressive flexibility, Burnett could help set the tone for a strong beam roster.
Emerson Gaa (Denver)
The former five-star recruit has a hefty club resume, most recently adding 2026 DP regional all-around, vault, and beam champion to the list. Gaa has reached perfection on floor, proving that to be her strongest event. Although she doesn’t enter college with any glaring weaknesses, she has only competed up to a Yurchenko full on vault, though it is quite clean and consistent. With her range of skills and impeccable form, Gaa should be a valuable contributor for the Pioneers from the very start of her collegiate career.
Honorable Mentions: Ayla Miller (Utah), Michelle Lin (Denver)
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Article by Frances Leadman
