Purple & Gold Challenge

Recap

The Big Storyline: Despite losing two more gymnasts to injury prior to the meet, the Tigers won the inaugural Purple & Gold Challenge in close fashion. A standout day in the all-around from Haleigh Bryant was enough for LSU to edge out California for the team title and put up a strong total. The Golden Bears were led by freshman eMjae Frazier, who earned the first perfect score of her career with a great floor routine, while Washington’s strong away total was boosted by a freshman as well—Lilly Tubbs’ stellar bars set for a 9.950. Despite a season low team score, George Washington’s Deja Chambliss was able to give the Colonials an event win with her beam title.

Implications: While Aleah Finnegan was absent for the Tigers due to illness, Kai Rivers is feared to have suffered an Achilles injury that will have long-term effects. California finishes the Pac-12 conference regular season at 4-1-2 while Washington ended winless.

Records: Frazier’s perfect score is the first in program history on the event.

Controversies: There were a few interesting developments at the first edition of this event, starting with the fact it was not streamed. California co-head coaches Justin Howell and Liz Crandall-Howell were not present due to illness. The meet also started roughly 30 minutes late without much explanation due to the lack of video. Finally, scoring failed completely partway through the meet, leaving it to be done by hand.

Preview

Current Rankings: No. 6 LSU, No. 7 California, No. 23 Washington and No. 37 George Washington

Why You Should Cancel Plans for It: The Purple and Gold Challenge features a showdown between two tightly ranked foes, California and LSU, alongside two teams on the rise. The battle for sixth in the rankings will take place head to head, but the Huskies can’t be counted out as a spoiler after hitting 197 last weekend. The Colonials—currently fighting for a regionals spot—should be at their best following their two best totals of the season.

What We’re Watching: All eyes will be on the Tigers as they try to repeat last week’s near-198 despite losing several more routines to injury. Haleigh Bryant and Aleah Finnegan continuing to earn perfect scores may be critical for LSU’s continued success. For the Golden Bears, it’s all about which of their all-arounders can have a particularly successful day. Mya Lauzon and eMjae Frazier have been the usual suspects, but Nevaeh DeSouza is due for a breakout performance.

What Else to Know Before Tuning in: This is the first P&G Challenge college meet.