Michigan Women’s Gymnastics Advances to NCAA Regional Final After Strong Second-Round Finish
The No. 10-ranked University of Michigan women’s gymnastics team is heading to the regional final after a powerhouse performance in the NCAA Regional Second Round. Competing on Thursday, April 2, at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the Wolverines secured a second-place finish with a total score of 196.900, marking their first appearance in a regional final since 2023.
In a tightly contested meet that remained undecided until the final rotation, Michigan pushed the pace against a field of top-tier programs. While No. 7 Stanford claimed the top spot with a score of 197.175, Michigan’s consistency across all four events ensured their advancement. No. 22 North Carolina followed in third with a 196.250, and Utah State rounded out the group in fourth place with a 195.750.
Standout Performances and Key Scores
Michigan’s path to the final was paved by several near-perfect scores and high-pressure execution. The team demonstrated particular strength on the floor and vault:
- Floor Exercise: The Wolverines dominated this rotation, recording four scores of 9.900. This included three consecutive 9.900s from Carly Bauman, Sophia Diaz, and Quincy Walters.
- Vault: Reyna Guggino provided a critical boost to the team total by sticking her landing for a 9.900.
- Uneven Bars: Sophie Parenti led the charge in the fifth spot, delivering a team-best 9.850 to close out the rotation with a score of 49.150.
- All-Around Impact: Carly Bauman was a focal point of the meet, notching two separate scores of 9.900, including a high mark during the first rotation. Kayli Boozer as well contributed a strong 9.825.
The Road to the Regional Final
The competition began as a dead heat, with North Carolina, Stanford, and Utah State all holding a slight lead over Michigan after the first rotation, where the Wolverines posted a 49.075. However, Michigan’s ability to maintain high scores in the subsequent rotations allowed them to leapfrog the competition and secure the second-place position.
This advancement is a significant milestone for the program, breaking a three-year drought from the regional finals. The team enters the next stage of the competition with a season record of 20-8.
Key Takeaways: NCAA Regional Second Round
- Final Standing: Michigan placed 2nd overall.
- Total Score: 196.900.
- Top Competitor: No. 7 Stanford (197.175).
- Venue: Pete Maravich Assembly Center, Baton Rouge, La.
- Milestone: First regional final appearance for Michigan since 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the NCAA Regional Final?
The Regional Final is scheduled for Saturday, April 4, at 5 p.m. CT in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Where can fans watch the upcoming meet?
The event will be broadcast live on ESPN+.
Which teams competed in the Baton Rouge Regional Second Round?
The session featured Stanford, Michigan, North Carolina, and Utah State.
Looking Ahead
Michigan now shifts its focus to the Regional Final this Saturday. After proving they can compete with the top five programs in the nation, the Wolverines will look to leverage their momentum on the floor and vault to secure a spot further in the NCAA championships.
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