The LSU Tigers gymnastics team has once again proven their dominance in collegiate gymnastics by clinching their second consecutive Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship. This victory not only marks their sixth SEC title in program history but also highlights their consistent excellence and depth across all events. Competing at the Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama, the Tigers delivered a record-breaking performance, achieving a program-best score of 198.200 in the 2025 SEC Gymnastics Championships.
Under the guidance of head coach Jay Clark, now in his fifth season, LSU showcased their prowess across all four events—bars, beam, floor, and vault. Their performance was a testament to the team’s hard work, preparation, and the individual brilliance of their athletes. Notably, the Tigers began the evening on bars, recording a team score of 49.600, the highest in program history at the SEC Championships. Freshman Lexi Zeiss led off with a 9.875, followed by Ashley Cowan with a 9.900. Kailin Chio and Aleah Finnegan each posted a 9.950, tying their career highs. Konnor McClain and Haliegh Bryant rounded out the rotation with 9.900s.
Transitioning to beam, the Tigers continued their exceptional performance with a team score of 49.450, the highest beam score in LSU history at the SEC Championships. Sierra Ballard and Kylie Coen contributed 9.850s, while Chio added another 9.850. McClain posted a 9.900, and Bryant delivered a 9.950, with Finnegan closing the rotation with a 9.925.
On floor, LSU achieved a total score of 49.625, their second-highest at the SEC Championships. Coen and Amari Drayton led off with 9.875s, followed by Chio and Finnegan with 9.950s. Bryant anchored the rotation with a 9.950, showcasing the team’s depth and synchronization.
The final rotation on vault saw the Tigers post a 49.525, their fourth-highest in program history at the SEC Championships. KJ Johnson led off with a 9.875, followed by Zeiss and Finnegan with 9.900s. Drayton added a 9.800, with Chio contributing a 9.900. Bryant anchored the vault rotation with a 9.950, solidifying LSU’s commanding lead.
Throughout the competition, LSU maintained their lead, highlighted by top-five program scores on every event. Bryant emerged as the top gymnast of the day with an all-around score of 39.725, marking back-to-back years that she has claimed the individual SEC All-Around Title. This achievement added to her illustrious career, making her a five-time SEC Champion. Finnegan also claimed the SEC beam title alongside Bryant, marking her first SEC title on the event.
The team’s success was not just a result of individual brilliance but also a reflection of their cohesive team dynamics and strategic preparation. Each gymnast’s performance contributed to the overall success, demonstrating the depth and versatility of the LSU gymnastics program. The Tigers’ ability to perform under pressure and deliver consistent results across all events is a testament to their training, discipline, and commitment to excellence.
This victory also underscores the significance of the SEC Championships in collegiate gymnastics. The Southeastern Conference is renowned for its competitive gymnastics programs, and winning the SEC title is a prestigious accomplishment. LSU’s back-to-back championships highlight their sustained excellence and position them as a dominant force in the sport.
Looking ahead, LSU’s performance at the SEC Championships serves as a strong foundation for the upcoming NCAA Championships. The team’s confidence, momentum, and proven ability to perform at a high level will be invaluable as they aim for national success. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, LSU is poised to continue their legacy of excellence in collegiate gymnastics.
In conclusion, LSU’s second consecutive SEC championship is a remarkable achievement that reflects the team’s dedication, skill, and teamwork. Their record-breaking performance at the 2025 SEC Gymnastics Championships not only solidifies their status as a powerhouse in collegiate gymnastics but also sets the stage for future successes on the national stage. As the Tigers continue to build on this momentum, their pursuit of excellence remains unwavering, promising an exciting future for LSU gymnastics.
