LSU sophomore Kailin Chio is making waves in the gymnastics world, standing out as not only LSU’s top gymnast in 2026 but also one of the nation’s elite. Chio has claimed the No. 1 national ranking on vault and balance beam, achieving perfect 10s in a recent showdown at Oklahoma.
She's also ranked No. 2 nationally in the all-around, trailing only former Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles from UCLA. Her 22 individual event victories this season across just seven meets speak volumes about her prowess.
LSU coach Jay Clark couldn’t be more impressed, stating, “She’s operating at such a high level there’s not a whole lot you can say other than ‘Wow.’” Yet, for LSU to maintain its top-tier national standing, they can't rely solely on Chio’s brilliance.
Clark emphasized the importance of team depth, saying, “We can’t become so dependent on her to do what she did at Oklahoma all the time. We have plenty of athletes capable of performing at that level.”
As LSU gears up for another SEC clash, this time against No. 3 Alabama, let’s spotlight some key gymnasts who will be crucial for the Tigers.
Kaliya Lincoln
Lincoln, a 2024 U.S. Olympic team alternate, is another standout, tied for seventh nationally on floor with a season high of 9.975.
Despite dealing with Achilles tendon inflammation, Lincoln's performances on vault and beam at Oklahoma, scoring 9.95 and 9.925 respectively, highlight her importance to the team’s championship aspirations. Clark is cautious with her floor routine to ensure she’s ready for the postseason.
Amari Drayton
Drayton brings explosive energy to the mat. After early struggles on floor, reminiscent of past challenges faced by LSU gymnasts, she’s bounced back with strong performances, posting scores of 9.95, 9.95, and 9.925 in recent meets. Her confidence is soaring, making her a key player in LSU's lineup.
Konnor McClain
McClain, the 2021 U.S. gymnastics all-around champion, has had a season of highs and lows. While she’s been impressive on bars, her beam performances have been inconsistent. After a recent injury scare, she’s cleared to compete, and her talent could be pivotal if she finds her rhythm in the latter half of the season.
Lexi Zeiss
Emerging as a reliable performer, Zeiss competes in three events each meet, consistently delivering solid scores. Her recent 9.925 on floor at Oklahoma underscores her growing contribution to the team.
Madison Ulrich
A junior transfer from the University of Denver, Ulrich has quickly become a key contributor, particularly on bars. She’s consistently posted scores of 9.90 or better, showcasing her All-American pedigree.
SEC Standings
The current SEC standings reflect a fiercely competitive landscape, with Oklahoma leading the charge. LSU sits in a strong position, but every meet counts as they aim to climb the ranks. Recent results show just how tight the competition is, with LSU narrowly edged out by Oklahoma in their latest encounter.
With these talented gymnasts stepping up, LSU is poised for an exciting season. As they face Alabama and beyond, the Tigers are ready to make their mark.