Happiness Stolen From Oklahoma Sooners’ Gymnastics Team as Unexpected Events Puts Halt on Iconic Tradition

Who could forget the scene in Fort Worth back in 2023? The Oklahoma Sooners were on top of the gymnastics world again. Fans wore “anyone but Oklahoma” shirts, but the Sooners? They just smiled, stuck their landings, and clinched their sixth national title in nine years. Led by the graceful Jordan Bowers and powerhouse Olivia Trautman, they didn’t just win — they owned the floor. Then a week later they were seen celebrating as they signed autographs with fans at “Party at the Palace,” soaking in every bit of glory.

Fast forward to 2025, and guess what? They’ve done it again Oklahoma captured its seventh national title at the NCAA gymnastics championships in Fort Worth on Saturday, narrowly edging out UCLA’s Bruins squad led by Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles by four-tenths of a point. But the sweet taste of victory came with an unexpected twist, and as the team prepared for their triumphant return to Norman, where fans traditionally gather for a celebratory welcome, something changed!

Just when fans were ready to roll out the crimson carpet for their champs, Mother Nature had other plans. The Oklahoma women’s gymnastics team, fresh off another unforgettable NCAA title win, had to press pause on their big homecoming moment. Oklahoma women’s gymnastics women’s X page posted, “Due to inclement weather conditions, we will not have our usual welcome home event tonight,” the program announced, disappointing thousands of supporters eager to greet their champions. “We will celebrate our national championship with you all very soon!”

While we don’t know much about 2023 welcome home event. The sooners had a full on happy memories a week after winning the 2023 title and the party still shine bright in Sooner hearts. That year, it was all sunshine, smiles, and celebration at the Party with the CHAMPS at the Palace! Fans gathered on the lawn north of the Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, soaking in the glory of their gymnastics queens.

From autograph sessions at 12:30 p.m. CT to an electric football spring game at 2:30 p.m., it was a day filled with pride and cheers. The highlight? The gymnastics team being honored on the field during the first quarter, met with roaring applause.

Oklahoma Sooners capture their seventh NCAA title

The dynasty continues. The Oklahoma women’s gymnastics team delivered yet another masterclass inside a roaring Dickies Arena on Saturday night, claim the program’s seventh national championship. Their 198.0125 edged out UCLA (197.6125), Missouri (197.250), and Utah (197.2375) in a high-stakes final packed with pressure and poise.

This title marks the Sooners’ 11th trip to the finals in the last 12 years, and their third crown in four seasons. With seven NCAA titles now in the bag, Oklahoma is tied with UCLA for the third-most in collegiate history.

“We’ve actually had an incredible year,” said head coach K.J. Kindler. “We weren’t perfect, no doubt about it. Consistency wise, this team has been incredibly consistent. Especially considering the amount of freshmen routines and even new routines that we were competing, which I think says a lot for the future – we’re excited about that. But these leaders who are here at the table lead that group. They brought them to a championship mindset and that’s what made the difference.”

Kindler pointed to the beam rotation as the spark: “The key tonight was definitely balance beam,” she said. “To start off like that – it was like a fire was lit under these guys… kudos to Lily – she competed angry. Redemption for her from Thursday… Just in general, I saw a lot of joy… a lot of freedom… Just couldn’t be prouder of this team.”

Jordan Bowers summed it up: “We (are definitely leaving) it better than we found it.”