Alabama Falls to Top-Ranked Oklahoma in Norman Showdown, 198.200–197.475

February 6, 2026- NORMAN, Oka. - In a meet that showcased elite talent and postseason intensity, No. 4 Alabama women's gymnastics traveled to Norman on February 6 to face the nation's top-ranked Oklahoma Sooners. Despite a strong showing and several standout performances, the Crimson Tide fell 198.200–197.475 in a meet that underscored both Alabama's championship potential and the razor-thin margins at the top of NCAA gymnastics.

Vault: Alabama Starts Strong, But Oklahoma Is Sharper

Alabama opened the meet on vault with a confident rotation, highlighted by a 9.925 from senior standout Lilly Hudson, whose amplitude and stuck landing drew loud praise from the crowd. Sophomore Lauren Little added a 9.875, and the Tide posted a solid 49.350 overall.

But Oklahoma, known for its vault depth, responded with a 49.500, led by Jordan Bowers and Faith Torrez, each scoring 9.950. The Sooners' landings were crisp, and their difficulty edge gave them an early lead.

Bars: Tide Keeps Pace With Clean Execution

Alabama's bars lineup was one of its best of the season. Maci Bryant delivered a 9.900 with fluid transitions and a stuck double layout, while Cam Machado added a 9.875. The Tide posted a 49.425, matching Oklahoma's rotation score and keeping the meet within reach.

Coach Ashley Johnston praised the team's composure: "We've been working on hitting under pressure, and tonight they showed that poise."

Beam: A Battle of Precision

Beam was the turning point. Alabama posted a respectable 49.300, led by Ella Burgess with a 9.900. But Oklahoma's beam rotation was nearly flawless, scoring 49.600. Ragan Smith anchored with a 9.975, showcasing textbook form and unwavering confidence.

Alabama's minor balance checks and tentative connections cost tenths, and the Sooners widened their lead heading into the final rotation.

Floor: Alabama's Power Meets Oklahoma's Artistry

Alabama closed the meet on floor with energy and athleticism. Lilly Hudson again led the way with a 9.950, combining powerful tumbling with expressive choreography. Shania Adams added a 9.900, and the Tide posted a 49.400.

Oklahoma, however, matched the score and sealed the win with a 198.200 - the highest team total in the NCAA this season. Their final routine from Torrez, a 9.975, brought the crowd to its feet and capped a dominant performance.

What It Means for Alabama

Despite the loss, Alabama's 197.475 was its second-highest score of the season and a strong road mark against the nation's best. The Tide showed depth, resilience, and postseason readiness, even as Oklahoma's precision and difficulty proved decisive.

Coach Johnston emphasized the positives: "We're building toward March. This team is learning how to compete with the best, and tonight was a step forward."

Alabama returns home next Friday to host the Crimson Classic, where they'll face Missouri in a key SEC matchup. With postseason seeding on the horizon, every tenth counts - and the Tide is trending upward.