The No. 7 Missouri gymnastics team secured a historic victory on February 6, 2024, by defeating the No. 25 Kentucky Wildcats with a score of 196.825 to 196.800. This win marks the first time in program history that Missouri has triumphed in Lexington, Kentucky, against the Wildcats, adding to their impressive performance earlier in the season when they achieved their highest-ranked victory against No. 2 Florida.
Missouri’s success was built on strong performances across multiple events, as they outscored Kentucky on both vault and bars. This victory elevates the Tigers’ record to 6-3 for the season and 2-3 within the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
Key Performers Shine in Historic Win
The Missouri team showcased remarkable consistency, scoring at least 9.825 on all four events. Sophomore Olivia Kelly highlighted the competition with a season-high score of 9.875 on the bars, while junior Hannah Horton excelled further by achieving a score of 9.925. On vault, redshirt senior Elise Tisler contributed significantly with a score of 9.900, alongside three other teammates who scored 9.825.
Horton also shone on the floor, earning an impressive score of 9.950. In addition, sophomore Kaia Tanskanen made her mark on the beam, finishing with a score of 9.800. The performance from these athletes was critical in securing the narrow victory against Kentucky.
Upcoming Competitions and Season Outlook
Looking ahead, the Missouri gymnastics team will take a brief hiatus from SEC competition. They are set to host the Mizzou Quad on February 20, where they will compete against teams including Illinois, Ball State, and Air Force. This event presents an opportunity for the Tigers to build on their recent successes and further establish their position within collegiate gymnastics.
The triumph over Kentucky is not only a testament to the skill and dedication of the Missouri gymnastics team but also highlights a significant moment in the program’s history. With a growing record and a strong team dynamic, the Tigers are poised for a promising continuation of their season.
