Iowa and UCLA at Minnesota

Update 1/13: Iowa joined this dual after its Monday meet with Georgia was postponed due to COVID protocols within the Gymdogs’ program. The preview below was written before this development.

Recap

The Big Storyline: The Gophers started their season on the right foot with an impressive tri-meet victory over visiting Iowa and UCLA. Lexy Ramler expectedly stunned, notching a huge 39.700 in the all-around, complimented by Ona Lopers 39.525. That duo swept the event titles on the day. Iowa was yet again plagued by issues on bars, but Lauren Guerin notched a big score on floor to tie Ramler for the event title. UCLA’s day was highlighted by the debut of freshman Brooklyn Moors’ double front on floor, as the Bruins struggled throughout the day, ultimately finishing last.

Implications: Minnesota’s total would have ranked it sixth this week if Monday’s results were calculated into the standings, while UCLA’s score would’ve landed it 27th. Margzetta Frazier was also injured during her bars routine in the opening rotation of the meet, which could spell more trouble for the Bruins moving forward.

Records: This is Minnesota’s first-ever victory over UCLA.

Preview

Current Rankings: UCLA at Minnesota

Why You Should Cancel Plans for It: This is our first look at two teams poised to push for nationals berths and with final four dreams in 2022, and it is full of contenders for individual national titles as well. 

What We’re Watching: There are top tier freshmen making debuts on both sides: Haley Tyson and Lauren Pearl for Minnesota and Jordan Chiles, Brooklyn Moors and Ana Padurariu for UCLA. Mix in superstar returners for both squads in Chae Campbell, Lexy Ramler and Ona Loper, and this one is sure to have excellent gymnastics from top to bottom. Per Minnesota, Mya Hooten plans to debut a new floor routine at this meet. The sophomore had a perfect 10.0 on the event last year.

What Else You Should Know Before Tuning In: This is a social justice meet, and both teams are participating in spreading the message.