UCLA Bruins are blazing in all guns at the moment. Having earned the status of being a member of the Big Ten Conference for the first time, the Bruins have clinched yet another history. They have clinched the victory as the regular-season competition draws to a close. And the stakes were significantly high this time. Surprisingly, despite toppling these three heavyweights, UCLA aren’t all smiles just yet. And head coach Janelle McDonald might know something about that.

The Bruins had to lock horns with three significantly tough opponents in their Sunday matchup. Jordan Chiles and Co. went up against the likes of Nebraska, Ohio State, and Rutgers. So why the gloomy air? Well, before we address that, let’s take a look at their impressive run. The start was not something that the team would be particularly proud of.

They could only manage a score of 195, which has raised some concerns going forward. But what followed was an absolute miracle. Led by Jordan Chiles, the team, under coach Janelle McDonald, became invincible. The Bruins scored 197 or more in eight consecutive games that made them the team to beat this season. Finally, as they clinched the regular season title, the Bruins found themselves in a 9-0 record.

UCLA Bruins’ head coach, Janelle McDonald, caught up and got candid with her feelings. While she was definitely elated at the team’s win, there was some significant dissatisfaction in her voice.

“Today was not a perfect day for us, by any means. We definitely have some things to clean up,” said McDonald. Surely, things could have almost taken a turn for the worse. The Bruins, including Jordan Chiles, had significant problems nailing picture-perfect dismounts. Trying to get the team to pull up their socks before the all-important Big 10 games, McDonald stressed on upping the ante.

She said, “Today we needed to work on mindset, being aggressive, and being present in every moment. We definitely have work to do and confidence to build before we get to the Big Ten Championships. We’re going to use the next two weekends to do just that.” Well, the coach might be worried. But her team has shown enough character this season to be termed a probable NCAA title contender. 

The UCLA Bruins were ranked 12th after the first week. Now, as they enter week 10, the Bruins have cemented their positions in the third place. Thus, with the title within touching distance, they must now determine how things will turn out.But in order for the Bruins to power through, it is imperative that Jordan Chiles gets to regain her best form. After all, Chiles has been hit with some harsh reality recently.

Jordan Chiles faces tough reality check amid UCLA’s unstoppable run

Jordan Chiles has been the face of UCLA gymnastics. And has also been delivering jaw-dropping performances time and again. But even the brightest stars have their off days. As the Bruins stormed to their first-ever Big Ten regular season title at the Big Four meet, Chiles found herself grappling with an unexpected low. One that served as a stark reminder that perfection is never guaranteed.

Despite UCLA’s dominant 197.200 victory over Nebraska (196.675), Ohio State, and Rutgers, Chiles struggled on the balance beam, recording a season-low 9.825. The Daily Bruin pointed out the dip, stating, “Chiles and Malabuyo also notched season lows on beam-earning 9.825 and 9.800, respectively.” The Bruins’ overall beam rotation totaled 49.125. 

But Chiles’ personal slip was an uncharacteristic blemish in an otherwise stellar season. And the setbacks didn’t stop there. Even on bars, where Chiles soared with a team-high 9.950, the Bruins posted their lowest score in the event since February 7, finishing with 49.300. While her individual brilliance shone through, it wasn’t enough to mask the broader concern.

Was UCLA showing signs of vulnerability just as the postseason loomed? The team’s floor routine remained a saving grace, as Chiles and Brooklyn Moors once again dazzled with matching 9.950s, contributing to an impressive 49.500 in the event. In the end, Chiles’ struggles on beam didn’t keep her from clinching the all-around title, reaffirming her status as UCLA’s anchor.

But with the Big Ten Championships, NCAA Regionals, and Nationals ahead, this meet might serve as a wake-up call. Can the Bruins maintain their flawless conference run when the stakes get even higher? Chiles and her squad have little time to dwell on the setbacks—because the battle for NCAA glory is just beginning.