In Denton, Texas, the Sun Devil Gymnastics squad delivered a strong performance, securing second place in their first quad meet of the weekend with a score of 195.475. They faced tough competition, falling to No. 4 Florida but finishing ahead of Texas Woman’s University and Fisk.
Key Performances
Arizona State, now standing at 7-6 for the season, held onto second place throughout the meet. Their standout performances came on the floor and vault, where they posted scores of 49.125 and 49.075, respectively.
Senior standout Kimberly Smith shone brightly, capturing the all-around title with a score of 39.425. This marks her second consecutive win and the fourth of her career. Smith has now achieved a score of 39.400 or better three times this season, and she set a personal best on vault with a 9.875.
Junior Lilia Purler delivered a career-defining vault, sticking it for a 9.900, which not only eclipsed her previous best of 9.825 but also marked the highest vault score by a Gym Devil this season. This performance earned her the first event title of the season.
The team saw other impressive showings, with sophomore Halle Braaflat matching her career high and setting a new season best on floor with a 9.850. Freshman Safia El Mammann was equally impressive on beam, tying her personal best with a 9.825.
Senior Kayla Lee continued her consistent streak on beam, earning a 9.850 and maintaining her record of scoring 9.800 or above in every meet this season.
Senior Caroline Lichtman made her season debut, competing on beam and scoring a 9.700, adding depth to the team’s lineup.
Event Breakdown
- Beam (Rotation One): The team started slowly, but El Mammann’s 9.825 sparked momentum. Lee and Smith anchored the rotation with strong 9.850s.
- Floor (Rotation Two): Braaflat and Halle Gregoire both posted 9.850s, while freshman Delanie Kelly added a solid 9.825. Smith capped the rotation with a 9.875.
- Vault (Rotation Three): Despite early struggles, Purler’s career-high 9.900 turned the tide. Smith followed with a 9.875, and Gregoire closed with a 9.800.
- Bars (Rotation Four): Smith led with a 9.825, but the team faced challenges, having to count two scores below 9.600, with no other scores surpassing 9.750.
The Sun Devils demonstrated resilience and skill, with standout performances that promise an exciting season ahead. The mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talent positions them well for future meets.