UCLA at California

Recap

The Big Storyline: In the battle for second place in the Pac-12, nothing was decided as the pair of top 10 teams ended tied with season highs in one of the most entertaining meets of the season. California freshman eMjae Frazier exploded for a program record-matching all-around total to edge out fellow record holder Mya Lauzon and UCLA star Jordan Chiles’ 39.675s in a high-scoring affair with seven all-arounders scoring 39.450 or better. The Golden Bears got out to a lead at the halfway point after starting out even after one rotation, but back-to-back event totals of 49.600 or better to end the night pulled the Bruins even in the end.

Implications: Another tie for each program further convolutes the regular season conference standings as the Utes remain on top with only wins. California’s matchup with Utah next weekend will clear up the final paths to first, second, and third place finishes or ties.

Records: The team total is California’s second best score in school history, while it was the highest road score for UCLA since 2019. Frazier and Lauzon’s winning floor total also matches the best mark on the event in Golden Bears’ history.

Preview

Current Rankings: No. 6 UCLA at No. 7 California

Why You Should Cancel Plans for It: The Bruins are ahead in the rankings while the Golden Bears are ahead in the Pac-12 regular season standings, making the result of this meet integral in deciding who stays atop in both. The importance of this showdown should bring out the best in both programs, with plenty of storylines to follow.

What We’re Watching: Jordan Chiles has been spectacular this season, with her bars and floor routines nearly tallying 10s every time out. That’s been a catalyst for freshman Selena Harris to shine, as she’s easily been the top rookie in the country so far. One of her few challengers has been California’s eMjae Frazier, who already has career highs of 9.950 on three events. She’s slotting in well alongside the Golden Bears’ four other all-arounders, including Mya Lauzon, who recently tied the program record all-around total at 39.700.

What Else to Know Before Tuning in: This will be the first showdown between the Frazier sisters, as Margzetta competes for the Bruins and eMjae the Golden Bears. UCLA head coach Also, Janelle McDonald is in her first year as a Bruin after previously serving as an assistant coach for California. This will be her first trip back to Berkley.