UCLA at Arizona

Recap

The Big Storyline: UCLA solved some of its landing problems on floor this week, though it still struggled on bars and competed only five gymnasts on vault. This was a much better overall performance for the Bruins compared to last week, but lineups are still provisional on all apparatuses. Arizona did not manage to match last week’s debut score after having to count a fall of bars. Freshmen Jessica Castles and Elena Deets, however, looked truly impressive, which is very good news for the future.

Implications: Both teams are dropping in the standings, UCLA from No. 11 to No. 12 and Arizona from No. 15 to No. 20.

Records: UCLA freshman Frida Esparza posted a career high 9.900 on beam while teammate Chae Campbell posted career highs 9.900 on vault and 9.925 on beam.

Preview

Current Rankings: No. 11 UCLA at No. 15 Arizona

Why You Should Clear Space on Your DVR: This matchup may end up closer than most would expect as last week UCLA struggled to distance itself until the final two rotations against Arizona State, who is tied with Arizona in this week’s rankings. If the Bruins start out slow again in their road opener, the Wildcats just might take advantage.

You Can Fast Forward, but not Through This: UCLA junior Margzetta Frazier returned to the all around last week and put up a strong program, while Bruin freshman Frida Esparza stole the show with her event title-winning bar routine in her NCAA debut. Arizona also has a stellar freshman in Jessica Castles, who won a beam title in her own debut.