Jordan Chiles Shines Again as UCLA Takes Home Big Ten Gymnastics Titles
UCLA Gymnastics Claims Back-to-Back Big Ten Championships
In a stunning display of athleticism, Jordan Chiles led the UCLA Bruins to their second consecutive Big Ten gymnastics championship on Saturday, achieving her seventh perfect score of the season. Chiles captured the all-around title with a record-setting score of 39.825, including a flawless 10 in her floor routine. The Bruins topped their competition with a total score of 198.100, outpacing Michigan, Minnesota, and Michigan State.
Janelle McDonald, the head coach guiding the fifth-ranked Bruins, was honored as the Big Ten Coach of the Year for her role in securing both the regular season and conference titles for the second straight year.
“Our team is just going up from here,” Chiles shared with the Big Ten Network after the meet. “We haven’t hit our peak yet.” She expressed pride in her teammates, highlighting the supportive environment they foster.
UCLA kicked off the meet with strong performances across the board. Chiles opened with a score of 9.925 on the beam, followed by Tiana Sumanasekera at 9.925, while Katelyn Rosen, Sydney Barros, and Mika Webster-Longin each achieved scores of 9.850. Notably, Rosen made a remarkable comeback after a recent foot injury.
After the first rotation, UCLA found itself in second place, just 0.125 behind Michigan. However, with Chiles excelling on the floor, Webster-Longin matched her career high with a 9.925, while Sumanasekera and Ashlee Sullivan also posted impressive scores.
In the vault event, Riley Jenkins led with a score of 9.950, keeping UCLA at the forefront of the competition. Chiles and Barros both achieved scores of 9.950 on the uneven bars, with Webster-Longin tying her season high at 9.900.
Chiles concluded with a statement of determination, saying, “We are coming for y’all. This is our year and I’m very proud to say that we are the Bruins.” Her team’s success, characterized by both individual excellence and teamwork, positions them strongly for future competitions.
