In the world of NCAA gymnastics, few matchups spark as much excitement as LSU vs. Florida. But this year, it’s more than just a match. The match is going to be live on one of the top media platforms, and it is set to become a very important event to gather viewers from territories that have never followed it before. Olivia Dunne, one of the sport’s most significant influencers, is close to breaking through the threshold of increased visibility. With all eyes on the floor, could this be the moment gymnastics breaks into the mainstream spotlight?

The field of college gymnastics is on the brink of a nail-biting showdown as LSU and Florida come together for a high-end collision on ESPN2. Conventionally named the most important event of the season, this game is not only about positions; it is about heritage, audiences, and the relentless media impact on the sport. This chance can be proved as a golden opportunity for NCAA gymnastics.

LSU’s upcoming showdown with Florida isn’t just another meeting. It’s a spectacle with the power to elevate gymnastics to new heights. LSU head coach Jay Clark is well aware of the fact that this is a huge occasion and he describes it as a key moment for both the sport and its fans. According to Forbes, he has described this game as “incredible for the fans,” and some of the biggest stars in the sport will be on the court.

The Sooners entered the 2024 postseason as the overwhelming favorite to win the championship. But after the Sooners lost badly in the National Semifinals, an extremely talented LSU team took the lead. A few days later, the Tigers won their first national championship and took the top spot on the podium.

The two Titans will face off for the first time in SEC regular-season play on Friday. Even though the two frequently compete at nationals, Oklahoma’s transition from the Big 12 to the SEC forges a brand-new, intense rivalry. The stakes are higher on Friday. But Oklahoma upset LSU 197.950 to 197.650 in a quad meet to begin the season. So this might be the chance for the Tigers to take their revenge.

Now, No. 1 Oklahoma will face No. 2 LSU on Friday, February 14, at 9 p.m. ET. This meeting is a big chance for Olivia Dunne and the team to show their dominance. Meanwhile, broadcasting on ESPN will help gymnastics as a sport to get recognition.

The growing media influence on NCAA Gymnastics

A few days back, Olivia Dunne tweeted, “I am sitting here watching NCAA gymnastics and the empty seats are concerning. I care deeply about the growth in women’s sports, especially in the NCAA. If you want fans to enjoy the sport and increase viewership, you have to look at what makes the crowds go crazy.”

Now her concern might be solved, and gymnastics will also get the attention and recognition the sport deserves. With this level of gymnastics as a college sport, it seems to be on an equal spot like football and basketball. And the newer broadcasting networks like ESPN 2 are perpetuating the number of gymnastics fans.

Now, athletes star in their performances, which previously only entertained their typical fans. Now the broadcasting network and social media presence also play a big role in viewership. Especially social media, which is the most important medium that changes the game. And gymnasts like Dunne and Suni Lee have used the likes of TikTok and Instagram to make gymnastics much more popular.

This is for the next generation of fans as well. The fans would be able to follow the impressive routines of the athletes. They will also be able to view the backstage content and the stunning personal connection. All of this will inevitably result in a better-connected fanbase. Which in turn will benefit college gymnastics in securing more media deals. But the question is can it match the popularity of other NCAA sports?

While college football and basketball continue to dominate, gymnastics is closing the gap in terms of media attention and fan engagement. The LSU-Florida showdown is a prime example of how the sport is evolving. And with packed arenas, national broadcasts, and high-profile athletes, it is soon expected to reach its peak. Once that happens, we can even see the sport going mainstream.

With all eyes on this blockbuster matchup, one thing is clear: NCAA gymnastics is no longer a niche sport. It’s a movement. And as Dunne and LSU take center stage, they have a rare chance to prove just how powerful that movement can be.