CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – The No. 11 Michigan State gymnastics team finished second at the Big Ten Championships Saturday evening, scoring a 197.475 inside Illinois’ State Farm Center. This marks the fifth consecutive conference meet where the Spartans have placed in the top two.
Strong Performance Despite Challenges
UCLA won the meet with a score of 198.100. Minnesota finished third with 196.900, and Michigan placed fourth with 196.800. Michigan State’s second-place finish brings their overall season record to 20-6. Head coach Mike Rowe praised the team’s performance, noting their resilience in the face of season-ending injuries.
Senior Sage Kellerman had a standout performance, winning the conference title on bars and adding a third-place finish on vault. She previously won the vault title in 2023 during her freshman season. Senior Nikki Smith earned runner-up honors on floor and in the all-around, and shared third place on beam with freshman Lilia Cosman and sophomore Cady Duplissis.
Spartans Excel on Multiple Events
MSU began the meet with a 49.400 on bars, tying their second-highest score of the season. Kellerman anchored the event with a career-high-tying 9.950 to secure the title. A season-high 49.375 on beam helped the Spartans move into second place. Cosman, Smith, and Duplissis each scored a 9.900 on beam, earning a share of third place.
The Spartans maintained second place with a 49.450 on floor. Smith led MSU with a 9.950 to finish as the event runner-up. MSU closed the meet with a 49.250 on vault to secure their second-place finish. Kellerman anchored with a 9.925.
Looking Ahead
The NCAA Regionals selection show is scheduled for noon on Monday, March 23 on ESPNU. NCAA Regionals are scheduled for April 1-5 at Arizona State, Kentucky, LSU, and Oregon State.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Michigan State’s final score at the Big Ten Championships?
Michigan State scored a 197.475 at the Big Ten Championships.
Who won the individual title on bars?
Senior Sage Kellerman won the individual title on bars.
What is the next step for the Spartans?
The Spartans will await the NCAA Regional selections, which will be announced on Monday, March 23 on ESPNU.
What does this strong showing at the Big Ten Championships mean for the Spartans’ chances in the NCAA postseason?
