Before the beam event, the Michigan State Gymnastics team huddles together at Jenison Field House on Feb. 8, 2025. No. 5 Michigan State delivered a dominant performance, securing a 197.475-196.800 victory over No. 16 Minnesota.
The No. 5 Michigan State University gymnastics team delivered a 197.475-196.800 victory over No. 16 Minnesota at Jenison Field House, feeding off an energetic home crowd in one of their best performances of the season.
"I am ecstatic," said Michigan State head coach Mike Rowe. "We proved to ourselves that we are one of the best teams in [the Big ten] and executed exactly what we needed to do."
MSU set the tone early on vault, with every gymnast scoring 9.800 or higher. Gabi Stephen and Sage Kellerman led the way, both earning 9.900s to tie for first place. Amy Doyle and Olivia Zsarmani followed with strong 9.875 routines, giving the Spartans an early lead.
The Spartans carried their momentum to the uneven bars, where Nikki Smith soared to a season-high 9.925, tying Kellerman for the top score. Amy Doyle set a career-high 9.875, further showcasing MSU’s depth. Their consistency on bars provided a crucial edge heading into the second half.
The balance beam proved pivotal as Skyla Schulte delivered a near-flawless routine, earning a 9.925 to take first place. Gabi Stephen followed with a poised 9.900, while Nikki Smith added a solid 9.875. Sage Kellerman returned to the balance beam for the first time in three years, competing in an exhibition routine. Though not factored into the final score, her 8.250 marked a significant personal milestone.
"We know we have depth," said Rowe. "We wanted to get everyone on our team exposure and experience in front of the fans and the judges because it just means so much to them."
Heading into the floor event, the Spartans remained in control. Elle Beaufait energized the crowd with a 9.925, while Gabi Stephen followed with a 9.875. Delanie Harkness and Nikki Smith sealed the meet with strong performances.
Nikki Smith claimed the all-around title, with Gabi Stephen finishing second. Schulte’s standout routines on balance beam and floor further highlighted MSU’s dominance.
The win solidified MSU’s position in the Big Ten standings, providing momentum ahead of a crucial meet against Nebraska next weekend. The Spartans continue their push for back-to-back conference titles.
"We are so confident with the team we have," said Rowe. "With consistency and care this team is going to do great things."
MSU will travel to Lincoln, Nebraska, to take on Nebraska on Saturday, Feb. 15. The meet is set to begin at 8 p.m. and will be streamed on Big Ten Plus.
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