Michigan State University gymnastics capped off Senior Day with a commanding 197.375-192.550 win over Bowling Green at Jenison Field House. Fueled by a standout senior class, the Spartans delivered a dominant performance to close the regular season on a high note.
"This senior class specifically, they’ve been instrumental in taking this program to the next level," head coach Mike Rowe said. "Their leadership, their character, their authenticity — they pull people in and create a culture where everyone can be themselves. They’ve been coaches on the sidelines, leaders in the gym, and an essential part of our success."
MSU dominated from start to finish, showcasing precision and consistency. Vault set the tone, with Gabi Stephen and Nikki Smith both scoring 9.900. The Spartans posted a 49.250 on the event, quickly pulling ahead of Bowling Green’s 47.375.
MSU extended its lead on bars, highlighted by near-perfect 9.925 routines from Sage Kellerman and Nikki Smith. The Spartans posted a 49.425, stretching their advantage to 98.675-96.150.
On beam, Cady Duplissis and Giana Kalefe led the way with matching 9.875 scores. Despite a minor setback from an uncharacteristic fall, MSU maintained its momentum, scoring 49.225.
MSU closed out the night with a high-energy floor rotation. Elle Beaufait dazzled with a 9.950, while Skyla Schulte and Kayla Tucker added 9.900s, sealing the Spartans’ top event total at 49.475.
Seniors Lauren Hsu, Genna Lebster, Katie Sawyer, Skyla Schulte, Gabi Stephen, Delanie Harkness and Giana Kalefe closed their home careers in style, helping establish MSU as a national contender.
MSU now turns its focus to next week’s Big Ten Championships in Ann Arbor, riding a wave of confidence and momentum.
"We’re coming in guns blazing," Rowe said. "It’s us, UCLA, Michigan and Minnesota in that third session. If we do what we know we can do with confidence, we should be okay."
With a senior class that has laid the foundation for continued success and a roster brimming with talent, MSU is poised for a deep postseason run. As they head to Ann Arbor, the Spartans aim to build on their dominant Senior Day victory and make a statement at the Big Ten Championships.
Support student media!
Please consider donating to The State News and help fund the future of journalism.
Discussion
Share and discuss “MSU gymnastics dominates Bowling Green on Senior Day, eyes Big Ten Championships” on social media.
