After a startling defeat, LSU Tigers gymnast Haleigh Bryant makes a brave confession about Oklahoma.
What happens when a team led by a star like Haleigh Bryant prepares for the season’s biggest challenge, only to fall short? Do they regroup and change their strategy, or do they stay the course, believing in their process? That was the question surrounding LSU gymnastics after their intense showdown with Oklahoma, where the Tigers finished second despite an impressive performance.
That was the heartbreaking reality for the LSU Tigers after their intense battle against Oklahoma. It wasn’t a landslide loss but a nail-biter. The difference between winning and second place came down to mere tenths of a point. The No. 1 Oklahoma Sooners barely edged out the No. 2 LSU Tigers, finishing with a 197.950 to LSU’s 197.650 at the Sprouts Farmer’s Market Collegiate Quad held on 11th January. It was a meet filled with electric performances. Both teams put up breathtaking routines, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the very last event.
Could LSU have won if a single routine had gone just a little differently? If one landing had been stuck just a bit firmer? If one judge had seen a performance just a fraction better? The margin was just 0.300 points razor-thin, making the loss all the more agonizing.
In a media interaction uploaded on the YouTube channel of ‘LSU Sports’ on Sunday, Haleigh Bryant addressed the media and remained confident about LSU’s approach. Her response was firm and straightforward when asked whether they would alter their preparation for facing Oklahoma again. “I don’t think the preparation is going to change at all,” she said. “We’re just going to treat it like one more competition.” She added.
Her response reflects a mindset deeply ingrained within LSU gymnastics – consistency is key. The team, led by head coach Jay Clark, believes in focusing on their own performance rather than worrying about who their opponent is. “Jay always says every single Friday night we’re competing against everybody in the country,” the tiger of LSU Haleigh Bryant added.
This philosophy keeps LSU grounded, ensuring they don’t get caught up in rankings or external pressure. While Oklahoma may have taken the win this time, LSU is determined to keep pushing forward without altering its core approach. Even with the setback, LSU had several standout moments. Freshman Kailin Chio showcased a phenomenal Yurchenko 1.5 on vault, helping LSU stay within striking distance of the Sooners early on. Meanwhile, Aleah Finnegan delivered an incredible 9.925 on the balance beam, proving why she remains one of LSU’s most reliable performers. However, Haleigh Bryant scored a 9.750 after sustaining a serious elbow ligament injury.
Despite all this, The NCAA All-Around Champion of 2024, Haleigh Bryant remains focused on the bigger picture. “Just because the number one team in the country is coming in here, we’re going to treat it the exact same to our normal gymnastics and do what we do every single day because normal is enough.”
Her words make it clear that LSU isn’t about to panic over one close loss. They trust their system, training, and ability to bounce back like tigers when it matters most.
LSU’s loss to Oklahoma was a reminder of how fierce the competition is at the top of collegiate gymnastics. While the Tigers delivered a strong performance, it wasn’t quite enough to dethrone the Sooners.
But what if the next time is different as Haleigh Bryant mentioned? What if they stick just one more landing, execute one more flawless routine, and finally take down the reigning champions?
The question is – Will ‘normal’ be enough when they face Oklahoma again as highlighted by champion Haleigh Bryant? Will the tigers roar when they next meet the Oklahoma on 14th February? Or will they need to find another gear to finally take the crown? Let us know what you think in the comments below!
