In the world of collegiate gymnastics, Michigan State's Nikki Smith has once again proven she's a force to be reckoned with. The senior gymnast was named Big Ten Gymnast of the Week, marking a significant achievement for both her and the Spartans.
This accolade is Michigan State’s first Gymnast of the Week honor this season and adds to their impressive tally of four weekly awards in 2026. Seniors Sage Kellerman and Olivia Zsarmani have also been recognized this season, each earning Specialist of the Week honors.
Smith, hailing from Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, is now a six-time recipient of this prestigious award. She joins an elite group this season, alongside UCLA's Jordan Chiles and Minnesota's Arianna Ostrum, as one of the few to clinch the Gymnast of the Week title.
Her performance against then-No. 17 Auburn was nothing short of spectacular.
Smith led Michigan State to a narrow victory with a remarkable all-around score of 39.725, her season-best. She showcased her consistency and skill by scoring at least 9.925 in every event, including a standout 9.950 on vault.
Her efforts not only secured individual titles on bars, beam, and all-around but also propelled the Spartans to a season-high team vault score of 49.625, the second-best in the program's history. The overall team score of 197.700 now ranks as the eighth-highest in Michigan State's record books.
Smith’s all-around score tied for the third-highest in the school’s history and was the top score in the conference last week. Impressively, she now holds five of the top 10 all-around scores in Michigan State's history.
With performances like these, Nikki Smith is not just competing; she’s setting new standards and inspiring her team to reach new heights. Keep an eye on Michigan State as they continue to make waves in the gymnastics world.