Oregon State at UCLA

Recap

The Big Storyline: After the Bruins pulled ahead at the halfway point, counting a fall on beam opened the door for the Beavers to take the lead, which they did briefly before UCLA stormed back with a huge 49.625 on floor to end this Pac-12 classic in a tie. World and Olympic teammates Jade Carey and Jordan Chiles led the way, as expected, sweeping the individual titles for each of their programs.

Implications: While both teams’ scores will move them up in the national rankings, a tie will complicate matters for both teams when it comes to the conference standings, as wins take precedent. In a conference as tight as the Pac-12, it will be interesting to see how this develops.

Controversies: This meet was full of interesting developments. In the second rotation, as Bruin Ana Padurariu went for her Maloney on bars, a cable came loose and she stopped her routine. After restarting, she was originally given a 9.325, but after the judges determined it was an equipment failure, her score was raised to a 9.875. In the final rotation, Jenna Domingo originally received a 9.850 for her effort on beam for Oregon State, resulting in a UCLA victory at the end of the broadcast. About half an hour later, Domingo’s beam score was raised to a 9.900, changing the final score for the Beavers and changing the result of the meet to a tie.

Preview

Current Rankings: No. 16 Oregon State at No. 6 UCLA

Why You Should Cancel Plans for It: Reigning world champions and U.S. Olympic teammates Jordan Chiles and Jade Carey are set to reunite and put on a showdown as the pair of Pac-12 foes battle in a conference dual. While those two alone could headline a meet with their all-around race, Bruin freshman Selena Harris will certainly be in the mix as she’s the highest ranked all-arounder of either team, sitting at third in the NCAA. Expect lots of huge scores from that trio.

What We’re Watching: UCLA has surpassed expectations so far this season, only competing on the road, with this home opener a great chance to put another big total on the board and grab an important conference win. Oregon State beat the Bruins last year in the Pac-12 regular season standings and got to compete in the evening session of the conference championship, so this is a crucial result for the Beavers as well in their conference opener.

What Else to Know Before Tuning in: Of the Bruins’ celebratory meets this year, it will be their Equity Meet.