“When one door closes, another opens”—the age-old saying just came true for UCLA. Plagued by the raging controversy involving their star performer Selena Harris, UCLA received a massive boost in Jordan Chiles’ announcement recently. Over the past few months, the tension has been palpable between UCLA and the 2024 Pac-12 gymnast of the year, Harris. Hinting at a brewing rift between both parties, Harris ended her ties with her former NCAA team. 

However, it wasn’t until June 17 that the Florida Gators announced they were roping in the 12x All-American. Subsequently, Harris proceeded to make a snarky comment towards UCLA, which resulted in Harris facing a huge backlash. Meanwhile, following Harris’ departure, UCLA looked significantly depleted until they received a massive boost. It was none other than Jordan Chiles who was coming back! 

Jordan Chiles to complete her remaining 2 UCLA years

Jordan Chiles had an impeccable outing at the Paris Olympics. Competing in the team and floor events, Chiles secured a gold and a bronze medal to add to her shining list of accolades. However, while in Paris, Jordan Chiles hinted at making a big announcement on August 8. And when she did drop the update, people at UCLA were screaming in joy. 

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Hoda Kotb, Jordan Chiles stated that she will temporarily pause her elite career to go back to college. Chiles said, “I am returning back to UCLA to represent the Bruins for my two remaining years of college. So you guys will see me back in Pauley.” Surely, the experience of the Olympian will work wonders for UCLA this season. A lot will depend on Chiles if UCLA wants to win the NCAA title this season. 

Moreover, this will also be an opportunity for UCLA to clap back at Selena Harris, who indirectly blamed the team for embracing mediocrity. In what was supposed to be a farewell statement, Selena Harris took a dig at her former team and said, “I’m ready to be on a team that will challenge me every day to be my best.” Such a comment led to widespread fan outrage, as they termed her ‘immature’ for her behavior. Luckily for UCLA, besides Jordan Chiles, they have also secured the services of another promising gymnast. 

Frida Esparza aims for gymnastics glory with UCLA

Frida Esparza has been a part of the Bruins for four years now. With dreams of winning the NCAA championship for UCLA, Esparza showed ample promise right from the start. In her freshman season, Esparza managed to secure a fourth-place finish on the uneven bars at the Pac-12 championships. Prior to joining UCLA, Esparza clinched a gold medal at the Guimaraes World Challenge Cup. 

Coached by Chris Waller, Frida Esparza started her training at the tender age of just 2 years. Holding dual citizenship, Esparza represented the United States of America until 2016. However, in 2018, she decided to go back to her roots and don the Mexican colors. Success soon followed as Esparza became the all-around champion for Mexico while securing a bronze medal at the 2018 Pan American Championships. Thus, with a double boost coming UCLA’s way, they will look to fly high this season. And for Jordan Chiles, she hopes to continue with her Olympic career in the NCAA as well.