Oklahoma’s women’s gymnastics team secured its eighth national championship with a 198.1625 total score, edging LSU by just 0.0875 points in the final rotation at Dickies Arena on April 18, 2026.
How the Sooners clinched the title after trailing LSU entering floor
The Sooners entered the final rotation trailing LSU after a challenging beam rotation that included a fall from Keira Wells and a restricted 9.735 score from injured sophomore Addison Fatta, who was limited to beam only due to a hand injury sustained earlier in the week.
Freshman Ella Murphy delivered what head coach K.J. Kindler later described as “the most nervous” experience of her life on beam, followed by strong contributions from Lily Pederson and senior Faith Torrez, allowing Oklahoma to regroup and refocus for the floor exercise.
For more on this story, see Oklahoma State vs Princeton Women’s Basketball Highlights – 2026 NCAA Tournament.
Torrez’s high-scoring floor routine proved decisive, and when LSU sophomore Kailin Chio posted a 9.90 on balance beam, Oklahoma’s margin of victory was confirmed at 0.0875 points.
Why this victory underscores Oklahoma’s sustained dominance in collegiate gymnastics
This marks Oklahoma’s fourth national title in five years and eighth overall since 2014, all achieved under head coach K.J. Kindler, reinforcing the program’s reputation as a consistent powerhouse in women’s collegiate gymnastics.
The victory came despite Oklahoma’s narrow loss to Florida in the SEC championship the previous month, demonstrating the team’s ability to adapt and perform under pressure when it matters most.
What was the final score difference between Oklahoma and LSU?
Oklahoma won by 0.0875 points.
Who was the Oklahoma gymnast injured prior to the championship?
Sophomore Addison Fatta sustained a hand injury earlier in the week and was restricted to beam-only competition.