Here are the first 12 teams in our Capsule Previews of our Top 25, based on the 2025 Preseason Coaches' Poll.  All recruit ratings are based on our 2024 assessment.    (Last update:  12/28/24)

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule      Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 17/24
Routines Gone:  1 VT, 2 UB, 2 BB, 2 FX
Head Coach: KJ Kindler
Associate Head Coaches: Lou Ball, Tom Haley
Assistant:  Ashley Kerr
Finish Last Season:  6th
Returning Starters (7):  Jordan Bowers (Sr), Audrey Davis (Gr), Hannah Scheible (So), Ava Siegfeldt (Jr), Danielle Sievers (Sr), Faith Torrez (Jr), Keira Wells (So)
Other/Injured Returners (3):  Danae Fletcher (5th Yr Sr/I), Aspen Lenczner (So), Caitlin Smith (RS So)
Graduated (6):  Soraya Hawthorne, Bell Johnson, Katherine Levasseur,  Sheridan Ramsey, Ragan Smith, Meilin Sullivan
Other Losses (3):  Caitin Kirkpatrick (Sr/R), Madison Snook (Sr/?), Amy Wier, (Sr/TR/Missouri)
Newcomers (6):  Elizabeth Blessey (Fr), Addison Fatta (Fr), Elle Mueller (Fr), Lily Pederson (Fr), Kelsey Slade (Fr), Hurley Snow (Fr)

Quick Assessment: Oklahoma had an unexpected early end to their season in 2024, as a series of falls and missteps on vault, in a shocking result, led to them not advancing to the final. Gone from that squad are stars Kat Levasseur and Ragan Smith, along with a total of seven routines from ten departed or injured athletes. However, the coaches have selected the Sooners as the predominant favorite to regain their title in 2025. They will be led by senior all-arounder Jordan Bowers and grad student Audrey Davis. Sophomore Faith Torrez will be another key gymnast, as will senior Danielle Sievers, junior Ava Siegfeldt and soph Keira Wells.  Sophomore Hannah Scheible could be another key gymnast back, but is currently injured and is projected to return in the second half of the season.  In addition, Danae Fletcher is injured and will return for a redshirt year next season.

OU will look to get an immediate boost from their outstanding frosh class, including former two-time National Team member Addison Fatta (5*) and top Level 10s Elle Mueller (5*), Lily Pederson (5*), and Kelsey Slade (4.5*). Fatta is a powerful vaulter and tumbler who tied for 19th all-around at the 2024 XFinity US Championships.  She also qualified for the Olympic Trials in 2021. A former senior elite and two-time US National Team member, Mueller won the all-around title (Senior F division) at the 2024 Women's Development Program (WDP) Level 10 Nationals. She also placed 2nd on uneven bars and floor exercise, tied for 2nd on vault, and tied for 6th on balance beam. Pederson is a four-time Level 10 National Team member who placed 4th all-around, 3rd on uneven bars and tied for 7th on floor exercise, and 9th on balance beam at the 2024 WDP Nationals. She has amassed 15 individual top-3 finishes at the Level 10 Nationals in her career. Slade is coming off a 5th place all-around finish at the 2024 WDPs. She also tied for 3rd on uneven bars, 6th on balance beam, and 8th on vault at that National meet. She was also a National vault champion in 2022.

OU's redemption tour begins in January, and they look ready to set aside their problems from 2024 and turn the page. Although they have battled some injuries, they have sufficient depth that any number of athletes could step forward in their place. The Sooners remain the frontrunner for the 2025 title.

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule      Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 17/24
Routines Gone:  2 VT, 2 UB, 2 BB, 1 FX
Head Coach: Jay Clark
Associate Head Coach:  Courtney McCool Griffeth
Assistants: Ashleigh Gnat, Garrett Griffeth
Finish Last Season:  1st
Returning Starters (8):  Sierra Ballard (Gr), Haleigh Bryant (Gr), Ashley Cowan (Jr), Amari Drayton (So), Aleah Finnegan (Sr), Alexis Jeffrey (Sr), KJ Johnson (Sr), Konnor McClain (So/I)
Other/Injured Returners (8):  Annie Beard (Jr), Chase Brock (5th Yr Sr), Kylie Coen (So), Olivia Dunne (5th Yr Sr/I), Leah Miller (So), Alyona Shchennikova (Gr/I), Tori Tatum (Sr), Bryce Wilson (Jr/I)
Graduated (5):   Elena Arenas, Cammy Hall, Jillian Huffman, Kiya Johnson, Savannah Schoenherr
Other Losses (0):  N/A
Newcomers (6):  Kailin Chio (Fr), Kaliya Lincoln (Fr), Zoe Miller (Fr/I), Victoria Roberts (Fr), Katheryn Weilbacher (Sr/TR/BGSU), Lexi Zeiss (Fr)

Quick Assessment:   LSU won their first National title in 2024, joining an elite group that included just four schools. They return 17 routines from that squad, having lost the services of all-around star Kiya Johnson and Savannah Schoenherr. The coaches have voted the Tigers #2, just behind OU, based on the depth of the squad and a strong incoming class. Haleigh Bryant, the 2024 NCAA all-around champion and Honda Sport Award winner, returns to lead the Tigers. She'll be supported by senior Aleah Finnegan and KJ Johnson, along with sophomores Amari Drayton and Konnor McClain. Unfortunately, Bryant will have a delayed start after an elbow injury during the Gymnastics 101 preview meet, and McClain is coming back from a torn Achilles suffered in May (but is already back on UB and BB).  On the other hand, Drayton appears to be ready to challenge for lineups on all four events. In addition, LSU has a deep roster that includes the return from injury of Alyona Shchennikova and fifth-year seniors Chase Brock (Yurchenko 1 1/2 VT) and Olivia Dunne.

LSU should be getting an immediate boost from their frosh class, led by Kailin Chio (5*), Kaliya Lincoln (5*), and Lexi Zeiss (4.5*). Chio is a former junior National Team member who dropped down to Level 10 in 2023. She dominated the 2024 WDP Nationals (Senior D), winning the all-around, vault (10.0), uneven bars, and balance beam. She also won vault and tied for the uneven bars title in 2023, placing 3rd all-around. Lincoln, a 2024 Olympic alternate, is a four-time member of the US National Team. This past season, she placed 6th all-around, 5th on floor exercise, and 6th on uneven bars at the XFinity US Championships.  However, in a recent press conference, Head Coach Jay Clark said she may be limited to Vault.  Zeiss, another former senior National Team member, placed 28th AA at the XFinity US Championships.  She finished 6th on UB at the 2023 XFinity US Championships, after winning the Winter Cup AA earlier in the year. She was also the 1st alternate to the 2022 US World Championships squad.  She may also be in contention for an AA role.  Unfortunately, former three-time US National Team member and 2023 Pan Am Games gold medalist (team, uneven bars) Zoe Miller (4.5*) will miss the season due to ongoing recovery from a shoulder injury.

With the confidence gained from their title run in 2024, the Tigers look set to defend their title. Despite some key losses and injuries, the squad has the depth and experience to navigate another successful title run.

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule      Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 24/24
Routines Gone: 0 VT, 0 UB, 0 BB, 0 FX
Head Coach: Jenny Rowland
Associate Head Coaches: Adrian Burde, Owen Field
Assistant:  Jeremy Miranda
Finish Last Season:  4th
Returning Starters (7):  Sloane Blakely (Sr), Skylar Draser (So), Danie Ferris (So), Ellie Lazzari (Gr), Victoria Nguyen (Gr), Anya Pilgrim (So), Leanne Wong (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (7):  Alyssa Arana (So), Kaylee Bluffstone (So), Lori Brubach (Jr), Kayla DiCello (RS So/I), Gabby Disidore (So), Bri Edwards (Sr), Riley McCusker (Sr/I)
Graduated (3):  Payton Richards (I), Chloi Clark, Michaela Magee
Other Losses (1):  Morgan Hurd (Sr/R/I)
Newcomers (4):  Skye Blakely (Fr/I), Lily Bruce (Fr), Ly Bui (Fr), Taylor Clark (Fr), Selena Harris-Miranda (Jr/TR/UCLA)

Quick Assessment:  Florida finished their 2024 season in 4th position and will look to challenge the front-runners for the title. They lose no routines from the NCAA Finals lineup.  (By the end of the season, the departed Payton Richards and Morgan Hurd were not able to compete). The Gators will be led once again by seniors Sloane Blakely and Leanne Wong, grad students Ellie Lazzari and Victoria Nguyen, and soph Skylar Draser, Dani Ferris, and Anya Pilgrim. These seven comprised the entirety of the final Gator lineup in 2024. The Gators will be deeper in 2025, with the return of seven others, including senior Riley McCusker and some talented sophomores who may have benefited from another year of adjustment and training. Unfortunately for Florida, sophomore Kayla DiCello and incoming frosh Skye Blakely (5*) both suffered Achilles' tears last summer during their runs for spots on the Olympic Team.

Florida, however, will be getting a major boost from UCLA transfer Selena Harris-Miranda. The former Bruin is a capable all-arounder and will push the returning Gator lineups immediately. Florida also welcomes freshmen Ly Bui (4.5*), Lily Bruce (4.5*), and Taylor Clark (3*). Senior elite Bui (4.5*)was a late addition to the Florida roster for 2025. Graduating over a year early (and just 16), Bui qualified on two events to the 2024 Xfinity US Championships, after tying for 1st on uneven bars at the 2024 Core Hydration Classic. The prior year, as a junior elite, she was 7th all-around and 4th on uneven bars at the 2023 Xfinity US Championships. Bruce is a two-time Level 10 National Team member who placed 9th all-around, tied for 2nd on uneven bars, and tied for 6th on vault at the 2023 WDP Level 10 Nationals. She missed much of the 2024 season due to an ankle injury. Clark is a powerful athlete who tied for 5th on vault (pike front half) and placed 2nd on floor exercise as an individual event specialist at the 2023 WDP Level 10 Nationals. She also tied for the floor exercise title, placed 4th on vault, and 6th all-around at the 2022 WDP Level 10 Nationals.

Florida has the core ingredients it needs to put together another title run, with their seven key starters returning and standout transfer Harris. However, some key injuries have impacted the Gators' overall depth, and they'll need to work hard to close the gaps on the front-runners.

Official Web Site:   Link      Schedule      Roster
Head Coaches:  Justin Howell and Elizabeth Crandall-Howell
Assistant Coach:  John Carney, Seth Helland
Starting Routines Returning: 19/24
Routines Gone:  0 VT, 2 UB, 2 BB, 1 FX
Finish Last Season:  2nd
Returning Starters (6):  Ella Cesario (Sr), eMjae Frazier (Jr), Mya Lauzon (Sr), Kyen Mayhew (So), Jayden Silvers (Jr), Madelyn Williams (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (6):  Miki Aderinto (Jr), Casey Brown (Jr), Jordan Kane (Sr), Brandi Kikuno (So), Annalise Newman-Achee (So), Abbey Scanlon (Sr/I)
Graduated (3):  Elise Byun, Andi Li, Gabby Perea
Other Losses (0):  N/A
Newcomers (5):  Ondine Achampong (Fr/I), CJ Keuneke (Fr), Sage Melkonian (Fr), Brianna Taurek (Fr), Mya Wiley (Fr)

Quick Assessment:  Cal had a historic 2nd place finish in 2024 and looks to make the final step and challenge for the National title in 2025. They lose two key gymnasts in Andi Li and Gabby Perea, accounting for five routines in total. However, they will be led by a talented core, including four all-arounders: seniors Ella Cesario, Mya Lauzon, and Madelyn Williams, plus junior eMjae Frazier. The Bears also welcome back sophomore Kyen Mayhew, as well as fellow sophomore Annalise Newman-Achee, who should both benefit from another year of adjustment and training in the NCAA system. Juniors Casey Brown and Miki Aderinto could also step into a lineup spot, especially on uneven bars.

The Bears welcome five newcomers for 2025, led by British champion Ondine Achampong (4.5*) and Level 10s CJ Keuneke (3.5*) and Mya Wiley (3*). Achampong is unfortunately coming back from a torn ACL, an injury that derailed her almost-certain path to the 2024 Olympics as one of the UK's top athletes. Achampong was the 2024 British champion in the all-around, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise. She also placed 13th all-around at the 2023 World Championships and has the skill and execution worthy of one of the top gymnasts in the world. Keuneke was the co-champion on floor exercise at the 2024 WDP Level 10 Nationals, where she tied for 20th all-around. She was also 4th on floor exercise at the 2023 WDP Level 10 Nationals. Wiley is a top vaulter (Yurchenko 1½) who placed 5th on vault, tied for 9th on balance beam, and tied for 17th all-around at the 2024 WDP Level 10 Nationals. She also placed 3rd on vault, 7th all-around, and tied for 7th on floor exercise at the 2023 WDP Level 10 Nationals. She was also the vault co-champion in 2022.

Cal's small but talented squad looks to challenge for their first-ever National Title in 2025. To do so, they'll need to find top replacements on uneven bars and balance beam, the events where Li and Perea will be missed the most. In addition, the newcomers and other returners will further strengthen the Bear lineups on vault and floor exercise.

Official Web Site:    Link     Schedule     Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 17/24
Routines Gone:  1 VT, 2 UB, 2 BB, 2 FX
Head Coach: Carly Dockendorf
Assistants:  Myia Hambrick, Mike Hunger, Jimmy Pratt
Finish Last Season:  3rd
Returning Starters (8):  Elizabeth Gantner (So), Jaylene Gilstrap (5th Yr), Ashley Glynn (Jr), Grace McCallum (Sr), Amelie Morgan (Sr), Makenna Smith (Jr), Camie Winger (So), Ella Zirbes (So)
Other/Injured Returners (2):  Olivia Kennedy (So), Sarah Krump (Jr)
Graduated (3):  Maile O'Keefe (5th Yr), Abby Paulson (5th Yr), Alani Sabado
Other Losses (1):  Jaedyn Rucker (6th Year/I)
Newcomers (5):  Zoe Johnson (Fr), Avery Neff (Fr), Ana Padurariu (Jr/TR/UCLA), Clara Raposo (Fr), Poppy-Grace Stickler (Fr)

Quick Assessment:  Utah overcame some big challenges (including a major coaching shakeup and transfer exodus) to finish a remarkable 3rd at the 2024 NCAA Finals. They lose 7 routines from that squad, including those from former four-time NCAA Champion, 19-time All-American, and school 10.0 record holder Maile O'Keefe. The Utes also lose six-time balance beam All-American Abby Paulson. Eight Utes return for 2025, led by 5th-year Jaylene Gilstrap, seniors Grace McCallum and Amelie Morgan, junior Makenna Smith, and sophomore Ella Zirbes. Unfortunately, 6th-year senior Jaedyn Rucker recently suffered a career-ending injury. The former NCAA vault champion was also a key fixture in the floor exercise lineup.

The Utes welcome five newcomers, including Level 10s Avery Neff (5*) and Zoe Johnson (4.5*), and foreign elites Clara Raposo (4.5*) and Poppy-Grace Stickler (4*). Utah also welcomes UCLA transfer Ana Padurariu, a former silver medalist on balance beam at the World Championships. Her execution on uneven bars and balance beam should help immediately address losses there. Leading the newcomers is top Level 10 Neff. This past season, at the 2024 WDP L10 Nationals, she placed 1st on floor exercise, 2nd on vault and balance beam, tied for 3rd on floor exercise, and placed 2nd all-around. She's a four-time Level 10 National Team member who has amassed 8 National Titles and 18 top-3 event finishes in her Level 10 career. She potentially will be an immediate all-around force for the Utes. Johnson is another top Level 10 who tied for 2nd on vault, placed 4th on floor exercise, and took 13th all-around at the 2024 WDP Level 10 Nationals. She was also 4th all-around in 2022 and 2023. Stickler is a standout on floor exercise (double layout, pike full-in) who was on the British team at the 2022 and 2023 World Championships. She was also 4th all-around and 2nd on floor exercise at the 2023 British Championships. She unfortunately suffered a back and hip injury early in 2024 but appears to be well on her way to a full recovery. Similarly, Raposo is a five-time Canadian National Team member who has battled injuries for several years.  However, she successully came back and placed 8th all-around at the 2023 Canadian Championships. She was also 12th all-around at the 2024 Canadian Championships.

Utah looks to take the final step back to prominence to claim a National title in 2025. To do that, the Utes seek to shore up their vaulting start values while cleaning up some last fine details on uneven bars and balance beam. After a strong showing in the preseason, they appear to be on their way.

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule      Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 15/24
Routines Gone:  1 VT, 2 UB, 3 BB, 3 FX
Head Coach:  Ashley Johnston
Associate Head Coach:  Justin Spring
Assistants:  Amelia Hundley, Ross Thompson
Finish Last Season:  8th
Returning Starters (7):  Shania Adams (Gr), Karis German (Jr), Gabby Gladieux (Jr), Lilly Hudson (Sr), Chloe LaCoursiere (So), Cam Machado (Gr), Jamison Sears (So)
Other/Injured Returners (5):  Corinne Bunagan (Sr), Gabby Ladanyi (So), Jordyn Paradise (Sr/I), Natalia Pawlak (Jr), Rachel Rybicki (Jr)
Graduated (4):  Luisa Blanco, Ella Burgess, Makarri Doggette, Isabella Martin
Other Losses (2):  Lillian Lewis (Jr/I/R), Mati Waligora (Gr/TR/Arkansas)
Newcomers (6):  Love Birt (Fr/I), Brooke Dennis (Fr), Ryan Fuller (Fr), Kylee Kvamme (Fr), Faye Rodio (Fr), Paityn Walker (Fr)

Quick Assessment:  Alabama looks to finish even stronger in 2025, after making the National meet but struggling through a rough balance beam set in the semi-final. They have lost nine routines from that squad, including routines from standout all-arounder and Olympian Luisa Blanco.  They also said goodbye to lineup stalwarts Ella Burgess, Makarri Doggette, and Mati Waligora. They return a strong core of seven gymnasts, led by senior Lilly Hudson, grad students Shania Adams and Cam Machado, junior Gabby Gladieux, and sophomores Chloe LaCoursiere and Jamison Sears. The two sophomores, in particular, have the potential to contribute even more in 2025, after another year to get used to the rigors of NCAA competition.

Bama welcomes six gymnasts, led by freshmen Love Birt (3*), Ryan Fuller (4.5*), Kylee Kvamme (4*), and Paityn Walker (4.5*). All four have elite experience and strong Level 10 accomplishments. Birt is a former junior elite who placed 7th all-around and tied for 6th on balance beam and floor exercise at the 2024 WDP Level 10 Nationals. She also tied for 18th all-around at the 2023 WDP Nationals. Fuller was the uneven bars National Champion (Senior E) at the 2024 WDP Level 10 Nationals and the balance beam Champion at the 2023 WDP Level 10 Nationals. She was also 12th all-around in 2024 and 2nd in 2023. She also tied for 2nd on uneven bars and 6th on floor exercise in 2023. Kvamme won National titles on vault (Yurchenko 1½) and balance beam (tied) at the 2023 WDP Level 10 Nationals. She then went on to represent the Philippines at the 2023 Asian Championships and World Championships. This past season, she won Region 2 Regional titles on vault, floor exercise (pike full-in), and the all-around (but did not compete at Nationals). Walker is a former senior elite who won the uneven bars title at the 2023 WDP Level 10 Nationals (Junior F). She also tied for 3rd all-around and 6th on balance beam while placing 8th on vault at the meet. She also won a Level 10 National floor exercise title in 2019. Her 2024 season was cut short, and she appears to be working back into top form.

In order to return to the National Final and close the gap on the top tier of teams, Bama will need to get some step-up performances from their returners and newcomers alike, especially from the sophomore class. Injuries and recoveries will also be key, as Bama seeks to address the gaps created by the departure of their top stars.

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule      Roster
Head Coach:  Tim Garrison
Associate Head Coach:  Rachel Garrison
Assistants: Chad Wiest, Raena Worley
Starting Routines Returning: 16/24
Routines Gone:  2 VT, 2 UB, 3 BB, 1 FX
Finish Last Season:  9th
Returning Starters (7):  Creslyn Brose (So), Hailey Davis (5th Yr), Isabella Magnelli (5th Yr), Jillian Procasky (Sr), Cecily Rizo (So), Delayne Rodriguez (So), Makenzie Wilson (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (4):  Cadence Gormley (So/I), Kaila Lawrence (So), Sharon Lee (So), Anna Riegert (Sr)
Graduated (3):  Bailey Bunn, Arianna Patterson, Raena Worley 
Other Losses (5):  Bridget Borque (Jr/?), Clarissa Clay (Gr/TR/UCLA), Samantha Forman (Jr/R/Manager), Megan Sapp (Jr/TR/Illinois), Claire Stippich (Jr/TR/UNC)
Newcomers (8):  Abby Bednar (Fr), Chesney Bennett (Fr), Carly Busch (Fr), Anna Flynn Cashion (Fr), Skylar Killough-Wilhelm (5th Yr/TR/Washington), Ryan Noonan (Fr), Alyssa Orgen (Fr/I), Isabella Rivelli (Jr/TR/BGSU) 

Quick Assessment:  Kentucky missed the National final last season, placing 9th overall after a solid 3rd place finish behind LSU and host Arkansas at Regionals. They lose a total of 8 routines, including three on balance beam. Foremost of those losses is all-around superstar Worley, along with standouts Bailey Bunn and Arianna Patterson. With 8 gymnasts gone from 2024, the Wildcat depth chart will need to be replenished. Leading the way in 2025 will be potential all-arounder Delaynee Rodriguez, a rookie standout last year. She'll also be complemented by 5th years Isabella Magnelli and Hailey Davis, and seniors Julian Procasky and Makenzie Wilson. Sophomore standouts Creslyn Brose and Cecily Rizo should also benefit from another year of experience. Unfortunately, another potential standout sophomore, Cadence Gormley, is out with an injury.

Kentucky has a strong history of getting their freshmen ready to compete, and they have six to choose from, led by Abby Bednar (3*), Chesney Bennett (3.5*), Anna Flynn Cashion (4.5*), and Ryan Noonan (3*). However, the big get for the Wildcats is All-American Skylar Killough-Wilhelm, a 5th-year transfer from Washington, who looks to immediately step into a major all-around role. Another transfer, junior Isabella Rivelli, was an uneven bars standout at BGSU.  Cashion looks to make an immediate impact on vault with her pike front 1/2. The 2024 vault National Champion (Senior F) also tied for 3rd on uneven bars and in the all-around. Bennett was the 2024 Region 8 Level 10 all-around and balance beam champion, who went on to finish tied for 7th on balance beam at the WDP Level 10 Nationals. She also tied for the floor exercise title and placed 7th on vault at the 2022 WDP Nationals. Bednar is a four-time Level 10 National qualifier. Her best finish was in 2022, when she placed 6th all-around and tied for 3rd on balance beam and 8th on floor exercise at the WDP Level 10 Nationals. Noonan placed 4th on uneven bars as an Individual Event Specialist at the 2024 WDP Level 10 Nationals. She was also 28th all-around in 2023.

Kentucky moved quickly to address some experience and scoring gaps in this year's lineup to create another strong team, capable of competing for a spot at Nationals. With strong step-up performances from the returners and big contributions from Killough-Wilhelm and Cashion, Kentucky should be set to contend once again.

Official Web Site:     Link      Schedule      Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 21/24
Routines Gone:  0 VT, 2 UB, 1 BB, 0 FX
Head Coach: Jordyn Wieber
Assistants: Catelyn Branson, Chris Brooks, Kyla Ross
Finish Last Season:  7th
Returning Starters (11):  Reese Drotar (Jr), Dakota Essenpries (So), Kalyxta Gamiao (Sr), Maddie Jones (Sr), Hailey Klein (So), Priscilla Park (So), Frankie Price (RS Jr), Leah Smith (Sr), Cally Swaney (Jr), Cami Weaver (Jr), Lauren Williams (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (1):  Chandler Buntin (So)
Graduated (3):  Emma Kelly, Serena Linton, Jensen Scalzo
Other Losses (2):  Jaime Pratt (Jr/TR), Makenzie Sedlacek (Sr/R)
Newcomers (7):  Grace Drexler (Fr), Kaitlyn Ewald (Gr/TR/Illinois), Ja'Leigh Lang (Fr), Joscelyn Roberson (Fr), Sadie Smith (Fr), Mati Waligora (Gr/TR/Bama), Julianna Weeks (Fr)

Quick Assessment:  Arkansas and Head Coach Jordyn Weber are looking to return to the National finals after finishing 7th last season. They return a strong 21 of 24 routines from last season, despite saying goodbye to five athletes. All but one of the returners featured in their final lineup last season, led by seniors Maddie Jones, Kalyxta Gamiao, and Leah Smith, juniors Cally Swaney, Cami Weaver, Lauren Williams, and Frankie Price, and sophomores Hailey Kline and Priscilla Park. In particular, Park, after a season of adjustment, has the potential to break through and contribute more this season. These gymnasts form a strong and experienced core, upon which Weber will look to build a "Four on the Floor" contender.

The GymBacks welcome 7 gymnasts, including two transfers. Mati Waligora, a grad transfer from Bama, could make an immediate impact, especially on uneven bars and balance beam, where Arkansas could use some high-potential routines. Kaitlyn Ewald, a transfer from Illinois, will hope to leverage her consistency to break through, especially on uneven bars. The freshmen are led by senior US National Team member Joscelyn Roberson (5*). Her high level of difficulty and dynamics could make her a future superstar for Arkansas and the type of athlete that can help push them to the next level. She excels on vault, floor exercise, and balance beam, and her weak event, uneven bars, can be easily adjusted to excel under the much lower rigors of NCAA competition. Arkansas also welcomes Grace Drexler (3*), a standout on vault (Yurchenko 1½) and floor exercise (full-in), who tied for 4th on vault and 28th all-around at the 2024 WDP Level 10 Nationals. She was also the all-around champion and floor exercise co-champion at the 2022 WDP Level 10 Nationals.

With a very strong and experienced core of athletes, Arkansas is ready to battle to return to Nationals. With some key strategic additions, including elite Roberson and Bama transfer Waligora, the GymBacks could be ready to achieve even more.

Official Web Site:      Link       Schedule       Roster
Head Coach:  Shannon Welker
Associate Head Coach:  Whitney Snowden
Assistants:   Lacey Rubin, Jackie Terpak
Starting Routines Returning: 14/24
Routines Gone:  2 VT, 3 UB, 3 BB, 2 FX
Finish Last Season:  11th
Returning Starters (7):  Kyra Burns (Gr), Amari Celestine (Sr), Kennedy Griffin (So), Hannah Horton (So), Rayna Light (So), Jocelyn Moore (Sr), Mara Titarsolej (Gr)
Other/Injured Returners (6):  Jessa Conedera (So), Grace Anne Davis (Sr/I), Helen Hu (RS Sr), Addison Lawrence (Jr/I), Kylie Minard (So), Courtney Woods (Jr)
Graduated (6):  Alonna Kratzer (Early Grad), Amaya Marshall, Kelise Newson, Hollyn Patrick, Sydney Schaffer, Sienna Schreiber
Other Losses (2):  Jalene Jachna (Jr/?), Mackenzie Patricelli (Jr/R)
Newcomers (9):  Ayla Acevedo (Fr), Railey Jackson (Fr), Olivia Kelly (Fr), Lauren Macpherson (Gr/TR/SJSU), Abby Mueller (Gr/TR/Illinois), Lisa Szeibert (Fr), Kaia Tanskanen (Fr), Elise Tisler (RS Jr/TR/Towson), Amy Wier (RS Jr/TR/OU)

Quick Assessment:  Missouri finished the season in 11th place after making the Region final and finishing 3rd, just 0.25 behind Utah. They return just 14 of their 24 routines from that final lineup, including half of their uneven bars and balance beam lineups. They'll especially miss routines from All-Americans Sienna Schreiber and Sydney Shafer, as well as Alonna Kratzer and Hollyn Patrick. Their returners are led by seniors Amari Celestine and Jocelyn Moore, grad student Mara Titarsolej, and sophomores Kennedy Griffin and Hannah Horton. Unfortunately, Grace Ann Davis suffered an injury during the preseason, removing a key vault and balance beam score. However, the Tigers are celebrating the return of star Helen Hu. She graduated in 2023 and did not take her fifth year in 2024. However, she returns for this season and is rapidly coming into form.  Also returning strongly is soph Jessa Conedera, who showed strong sets in the preseason.  Classmate Addison Lawrence has also returned from injury, and looks stet to challenge as well. 

Despite the losses, the Tigers find themselves ranked higher this preseason than their prior finish. This is likely due to the return of Hu and the addition of nine newcomers, including some talented transfers. Lauren McPherson joins the Tigers from SJSU, where she competed all-around (39.55 career high) but excelled on uneven bars and balance beam, two events where the Tigers could use a high level competitor. Another all-arounder, Abby Mueller, competed for the Illini, where she posted a career high of 39.3. She excels on balance beam and floor exercise, with career highs of 9.925 and 9.95, respectively. Another transfer, Elise Tisler, brings a consistent Yurchenko 1½ and also excels on floor exercise. The freshmen are headed up by Ayla Aceveo (3*), Railey Jackson (4.5*), Olivia Kelly (4*), Lisa Szeibert (4*), and Kaia Tanskanen (4*). Jackson is a two-time Level 10 National Team member who unfortunately missed the 2024 season. She tied for 3rd all-around and placed 3rd on balance beam, tied for 7th on uneven bars and floor exercise, and placed 8th on vault at the 2023 WDP Level 10 Nationals. She also tied for the uneven bars national title in 2022, placing 2nd all-around, 5th on balance beam, and 6th on vault. Back in 2021, she won a national title on the balance beam as well. Kelly, Szeibert, and Tanskanen are US Level 10s with international experience. Kelly is a two-time World Championships competitor for Barbados. She also placed 3rd on balance beam and 4th on floor exercise at the 2024 WDP Level 10 Nationals. She was also 13th all-around in 2023. Szeibert has competed for Romania and finished 12th all-around at the 2023 Romanian Championships. In 2024, she placed 3rd on uneven bars and tied for 8th all-around at the WDP Level 10 Nationals. She was also 12th all-around in 2023. Tanskanen has been an active elite competitor for the last several seasons. She last competed nationally as a Level 10 in 2022, where she finished tied for 2nd all-around, 4th on balance beam, and tied for 5th on uneven bars. Competing for Finland, she won the Finnish all-around and floor exercise titles and placed 18th all-around at the European Championships.

There are some open questions as Missouri proceeds to rebuild their full lineups, using a solid returning core, strong transfers, and some talented newcomers. That is an unpredictable mix, and as the season progresses, we'll expect to see Missouri continue to strengthen as the younger gymnasts gain experience.

Official Web Site:     Link      Schedule     Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 14/24
Routines Gone:  2 VT, 2 UB, 2 BB, 4 FX
Head Coach: Janelle McDonald
Assistants:  BJ Das, Lacey Dagen, Mark Freeman
Finish Last Season:  17th
Returning Starters (8):  Ciena Alipio (Jr), Paige Anastasi (So), Chae Campbell (Gr), Frida Esparza (Gr), Emily Lee (Sr), Emma Malabuyo (Sr), Brooklyn Moors (Gr), Katelyn Rosen (So)
Other/Injured Returners (5):  Maddie Anyimi (Jr), Sydney Barros (So/I), Jordan Chiles (Jr), Mia Erdoes (Sr), Clara Wren (So)
Graduated (6):  Emma Andres, Margzetta Frazier, Chloe Lashbrooke, Katie McNamara, Nya Reed, Sara Ulias
Other Losses (4):  Selena Harris (Jr/TR/Florida), Alex Irvine (So/TR/Auburn) Ana Padurariu (RS Jr/TR/Utah), Camryn Richardson (Fr/?)
Newcomers (6):  Clarissa Clay (Gr/TR/Kentucky), Sasha Fujisaka (Fr), Bronwyn Hoffman (Fr), Riley Jenkins (Fr), Macy McGowan (Fr), Mika Webster-Longin (Fr) 

Quick Assessment:  UCLA finished 17th last season, the highest rated team that did not advance from Round 2 of the NCAA Regionals. They lose 10 of 24 routines from their final lineups, including four on the floor exercise. Gone are standout sets from the likes of Margzetta Frazier and Nya Reed, but the loss that perhaps hurt the most was the high-profile transfer of Selena Harris to Florida. In addition, to add to the losses, uneven bars/balance beam standout Ana Padurariu transferred to Utah. Leading the way for the Bruins in 2025 is a gymnast who was missing from the roster in 2024: superstar Olympian Jordan Chiles returns to attempt to bring UCLA back to prominence in 2025. UCLA will also be paced by grad students Chae Campbell and Brooklyn Moors, seniors Emma Malabuyo and Emily Lee, and sophomore Katelyn Rosen. The Bruins also welcome back Sydney Barros, who sat out 2024 while rehabbing injuries, and Frida Esparza, who has been limited in the past due to injury.

With 10 departed gymnasts, UCLA brought in six newcomers, led by Sasha Fujisaka (4*), Macy McGowan (5*), and Mika Webster-Longin (4*). McGowan won the Senior E all-around title at the 2024 WDP Level 10 Nationals, tying for 1st on vault (Yurchenko 1½) and floor exercise (full-in), and placing 2nd on balance beam. She was 5th all-around in 2023, placing 4th on vault and tying for 7th on uneven bars, 8th on floor exercise, and 10th on balance beam. She'll make an immediate impact, especially on vault, where the Bruins have lagged behind the top teams. Webster-Longin has competed internationally for Belgium, including at the European Championships in 2024. In 2023, she had a breakout season, winning the uneven bars, floor exercise, and all-around at the 2023 WDP Level 10 Nationals (Senior B). She was also 5th on vault.  Her long lines and elegant polish should adapt well to NCAA competition.  Finally, Fujisaka graduated from high school a year early to join the Bruins for 2025.  She tied for 7th on FX and placed 27th AA at the 2024 WDP L10 Nationals.  She also placed 3rd on UB and 5th on FX, while taking 12th AA at the 2023 WDP L10 Nationals. 

With plenty of talent and experience, UCLA is well set to improve upon last season's finish. The coaches think the same, and have made them the #10 preseason pick. With some hard work and a quick adjustment period by the frosh, we could see UCLA once again in the mix for a spot at Nationals.

Official Web Site:     Link    Schedule      Roster
Head Coach:  Mike Rowe
Associate Head Coach:  Nicole Jones
Assistant:  Devin Wright
Starting Routines Returning: 23/24
Routines Gone:  0 VT, 0 UB, 1 BB, 0 FX
Finish Last Season:  14th
Returning Starters (9):  Elle Beaufait (Jr), Delanie Harkness (5th Yr), Giana Kalefe (5th Yr), Sage Kellerman (Jr), Skyla Schulte (Sr), Nikki Smith (Jr), Gabrielle Stephen (Sr), MaKayla Tucker (So), Olivia Zsarmani (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (8):  Kendall Abney (So), Lauren Hsu (Sr), Genna Lebster (Sr), Stephanie Lebster (Jr), Emma Misenheimer (So), Gabi Ortiz (So), Katie Sawyer (Sr), Isabella Trostel (So/I)
Graduated (5):  Baleigh Garcia, Jori Jackard, Nyah Smith, Noami German, Sydney Hayashi
Other Losses (1):  Tara Welsh (Gr/TR/Clemson)
Newcomers (2):   Amy Doyle (Fr), Cady Duplissis (Fr)

Quick Assessment:  MSU loses just one routine from a team that finished 14th in the nation last spring, placing third in a tough Florida Regional final. They did lose a total of six gymnasts, which impacted their overall depth. However, with returning all-arounders Skyla Schulte, Gabrielle Stephen, and Nikki Smith leading the way, the Spartans will seek to break through and qualify for Nationals in 2025. To that 1-2-3 punch, the Spartans add juniors Sage Kellerman and Olivia Zsarmani, senior Delanie Harkness, and sophomore MaKayla Tucker. MSU will also look for more contributions from their talented sophomore class, especially Isabella Trostel (who was out last season with an injury), Emma Misenheimer, and Gabi Ortiz. Sometimes, it takes two seasons for gymnasts to completely adapt to the rigors of NCAA competition and break through to the lineups, especially when a team has so many veterans locked into the lineups.

MSU adds just two newcomers for 2025, Amy Doyle (3*) and Cady Duplissis (3.5*). Duplissis placed 10th on vault (Yurchenko 1½) and tied for 23rd all-around at the 2024 WDP Level 10 Nationals (Senior F). She was also 6th on vault and tied for 10th all-around at the 2023 WDP Level 10 Nationals. Doyle was limited for most of the 2024 season while coming back from an injury. In 2023, she placed 2nd all-around, 1st on uneven bars, and 1st on balance beam at the Region 3 Level 10 Regionals. She also hit a career-high 38.975 in the all-around to win the Arkansas state meet. The prior season, she placed 33rd all-around at the WDP Level 10 Nationals.

MSU will look to break through to Nationals in 2025, paced by an experienced set of all-arounders. To succeed, they will need ongoing excellence from the key returners plus some step-up performances from the sophomore class and the two new freshmen. The Spartans will also look to improve their consistency on balance beam while upping their difficulty on vault.

Official Web Site:    Link     Schedule      Roster
Head Coach: Melissa Kutcher-Rinehart
Associate Head Coach:  Linas Gaveika
Assistant: Stephen Hood, Mia Sundstrom
Starting Routines Returning: 20/24
Routines Gone/Missing:  1 VT, 1 UB, 1 BB, 1 FX
Finish Last Season:  10th
Returning Starters (10):  Mila Brusch (Jr), Rosie Casali (5th Yr), Amanda Hargraves (So), Mia Hebinck (Sr), Momoko Iwai (Sr), Bella Mabanta (Gr), Rylie Mundell (Gr), Kiley Rorich (Jr), Abbie Thompson (Gr), Madison Ulrich (So)
Other/Injured Returners (4):  Cecelia Cooley (Jr/I), Ashley Gallen (So), Ava Mabanta (Jr/I), Maddison Reidenbach (So)
Graduated (1):  Jessica Hutchinson
Other Losses (0):  N/A
Newcomers (1):  Sophia Hampp (Fr)

Quick Assessment: Denver wrapped up the season in 10th place overall, after placing 3rd by 0.125 points to Stanford. They lose just four routines from last season, all from all-around star Jessica Hutchinson. Although a big score on each event will have to be replaced, DU returns no less than 10 starters from last year's lineup. Sophomore Madison Ulrich is the top returning all-arounder, and she'll be expected to continue from where she left off. Fifth-year Rosie Casali also returns, as do grad students Bella Mabanta and Rylie Mundell. Senior Momoko Iwai has been a key contributor as well, along with classmate Mia Hebinck. Juniors Kiley Rorich and Mila Brusch also return. The Pioneers also hope to see more output from sophomore Maddison Reidenbach, who has been looking strong in training, with a solid Yurchenko 1½.

Denver adds just one gymnast, Sophia Hampp (3*). DU traditionally has had relatively small rosters, so 15 gymnasts is actually on the larger side for the squad. Depth has been a problem in the past, though they've managed to do quite well with just five to seven gymnasts available on each events. Hampp tied for 10th on floor exercise and 26th all-around at the 2024 WDP Level 10 Nationals. She also placed 4th on floor exercise and tied for 4th on balance beam en route to a 16th place all-around finish at the 2022 WDP Level 10 Nationals. She missed most of the 2023 season.

Despite the loss of Hutchinson, Denver returns the core of a team that finished last season in 10th place. With the return of Reidenbach and the debut of Hampp, the Pioneers can continue to improve individually and push the team forward. Injuries are always a key factor for this team, and this year is no exception.

Link:  Teams #13 to #25

Link:  Intro