It’s not gymnastics season without a UCLA-Utah rivalry meet — and not even conference realignment can stop this one. This year, it’s a top-five showdown as No. 4 Utah hosts No. 5 UCLA in what promises to be a postseason-level clash.
Utah comes in with momentum, especially after the return of freshman phenom Avery Neff to the all-around last week, just weeks after a double ankle sprain on January 17. Her rapid comeback is a huge boost for the Red Rocks as they gear up for the postseason. Adding to the atmosphere, it’s senior night at the Huntsman Center — always one of the most emotional meets of the year — and the final home appearance for a stacked senior class, including Olympians Grace McCallum and Amelie Morgan, plus fan-favorite Jaylene Gilstrap.
For UCLA, this is the last shot to crack the elusive 198 mark before conference championships — the only team in the top five yet to do so. With Utah’s typical home scoring advantage, the Bruins will need to be at their absolute best to take this one and make a statement. Keep an eye on Chae Campbell’s soaring Yurchenko full and whether Brooklyn Moors can finally earn the perfect 10 fans have been begging for on floor.
With two powerhouse teams so evenly matched, expect this meet to come down to the very last routine — and possibly set the tone for the postseason ahead.
Rotation 1:
After 1:
Rotation 2:
After 2:
Rotation 3:
After 3:
Rotation 4:
FINAL:
VT:
UB:
BB:
FX:
AA:
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Live blog by Naomi Stephenson
