In a clash of gymnastics titans, the #2 LSU Tigers put up a valiant fight against the top-ranked Oklahoma Sooners, narrowly falling short with a score of 198.125 to 197.925. Despite the setback, LSU's performance was commendable, especially considering the last-minute withdrawal of Konnor McClain due to an injury during warm-ups. This victory secured Oklahoma at least a share of the SEC regular season title.
Rotation 1: Oklahoma 49.575 - LSU 49.425
Oklahoma started strong on vault, though some might argue their scores were a touch generous given their low stick rate. LSU, however, was solid on bars.
Lexi Zeiss kicked things off with a 9.850, followed by Ashley Cowan and Madison Ulrich, each earning 9.900. Kailin Chio dazzled with a 9.925, while Courtney Blackson contributed a 9.800.
With McClain out, Alexis Jeffrey stepped up in the anchor spot, delivering a 9.900.
Rotation 2: Oklahoma 99.175 - LSU 98.900
LSU faced challenges on vault, which proved pivotal. Oklahoma excelled on bars, achieving a season-high 49.600.
Lexi Zeiss began LSU's vault with a 9.850, but Courtney had a tougher time, scoring 9.775. Victoria Roberts and Kaliya Lincoln both impressed, with Kaliya nearly sticking her Yurchenko 1.5 for a 9.950.
Amari Drayton and Kailin Chio rounded out the rotation, with Kailin earning her first 10 of the season despite slight imperfections.
Rotation 3: Oklahoma 148.675 - LSU 148.375
Oklahoma continued to shine on beam, though some scores seemed generous. LSU's floor routines were strong, with Emily Innes, Nina Ballou, and Kylie Coen each scoring 9.850. Amari Drayton, Kailin Chio, and Lexi Zeiss followed with 9.925s, showcasing LSU’s depth and resilience.
Rotation 4: Oklahoma 198.125 - LSU 197.925
Oklahoma wrapped up with a 49.450 on floor, while LSU closed with a road-high 49.550 on beam. Kylie Coen led with a 9.875, and Emily Innes followed with a 9.900. Despite issues, Amari Drayton scored 9.850, while Kaliya Lincoln and Kailin Chio delivered stellar performances, with Kailin earning her second 10 of the night.
Final Thoughts:
LSU's performance was impressive, especially given their lineup adjustments. Head coach Jay Clark emphasized the need to outperform opponents by 0.300 on the road; LSU fell short by just 0.200. Oklahoma's bars rotation was crucial to their win, but LSU's consistency across other events was noteworthy.
Kailin Chio was a standout, capturing titles on vault, beam, and the all-around with a score of 39.850, tying for the third-highest in LSU history. Her achievements continue to elevate her status among LSU greats.
Looking ahead, LSU remains ranked #2 and faces a challenging weekend against #3 Alabama, with two meets that will test their mettle. If they maintain their current mindset, LSU fans have much to be optimistic about.