For weeks, concerns about dwindling attendance in collegiate gymnastics have sparked debates. But inside Pauley Pavilion on Sunday, the scene was different. The crowd was loud, the energy was electric, and the gymnasts gave the spotlight performances. With standout routines and near-perfect scores of Jordan Chiles and Brooklyn Moors, UCLA put on a show that was impossible to ignore. And UCLA’s head coach has praised his heart out for teams and thanked the fans for showing up.

The Bruins were splendid in scoring a victory over the 15th-ranked Michigan by 197.550-196.850. According to DailyBruin, UCLA head coach Janelle McDonald expressed her appreciation, stating, “I have to say—that crowd was really fun.” The Bruins earned a memorable victory in front of 11,000 fans in the Crisler Center. The statement came after raising concerns over the viewership, especially due to the rule change.

LSU gymnast Olivia Dunne highlighted the issue, noting, “I am sitting here watching NCAA gymnastics and the empty seats are concerning.” Earlier, Olivia Dunne expressed concern about the declining NCAA gymnastics viewership and emphasized the importance of greater fan engagement. Dunne’s remarks triggered a debate about the sport’s popularity as well as the significance of full arenas in supporting college athletes.

McDonald further added, “They (fans) were supportive of both teams and they were really enjoying watching such great gymnastics.” At the Crisler Center on Sunday, No. 2 UCLA upset No. 15 Michigan Wolverines, reaching a final score of 197.550 for the third time this season away from home. A 9.975 was awarded by the judges in the women’s race immediately to Miss Chiles’ floor exercise.

There was a bit of satisfaction among fans that Chiles couldn’t earn the perfect 10. Meanwhile, Brooklyn Moors also delivered near-perfect floor routines—9.975. However, the audience’s enthusiastic response underscored the growing support for collegiate gymnastics. How do other gymnasts perform to make it a team win?

UCLA Gymnastics secured a dominant win over Michigan, fueled by Jordan Chiles

In a high-energy showdown, No. 2 UCLA delivered a commanding performance against No. 15 Michigan, securing a third victory. Jordan Chiles dazzled with a stunning floor routine, while Brooklyn Moors matched her brilliance, leading UCLA’s dominance. Jordan Chiles & Co. have shown their resilience both as a team and as individual gymnasts. How did the score lead on the scoreboard?

Freshman Macy McGowan made a statement on bars, landing a career-best 9.925, while senior Emily Lee provided consistency with a solid 9.850 start on the floor. While UCLA shined under pressure, Michigan struggled to keep pace, particularly on beam. Their overall score hinged on costly wobbles and minor execution errors, leaving them unable to close the gap.

The floor team achieved a season-high 49.400 with a 9.925 from Carly Bauman and a 9.900 from Jahzara Ranger, while the Wolverines (8-3, 4-2 B1G) recorded a season-high 49.300 on the vault behind Jenna Mulligan’s career-best 9.950 that would earn her a portion of the championship. The U-M uneven bars team pulled up an outstanding 49.300 in the second rotation to overtake the Bruins, 98.650-98.575. Diaz stayed to tie a career-best 9.900, while Parenti tied a career-best 9.825 in the opener.

With this win, UCLA not only reaffirmed its dominance but also showcased its depth and star power. Michigan still has a chance on March 1 to prove itself. The next U-M event at Big Ten Quad (College Park, Md.) is scheduled at 6 p.m. The Michigan Wolverines will compete against Maryland, Illinois, and Minnesota. UCLA will be competing against No. 22 Ohio State—the second time this season—on March 2 for the Big Four meet.