Mizzou Gym Gets the W but Simply Whelms in Lexington

Shannon Welker says the team needs more consistency as they hit the midseason mark.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The Missouri gymnastics team defeated Kentucky in a close meet, but the performance was underwhelming overall despite some strong individual showings. While the Tigers secured the win, coach Shannon Welker acknowledged the need for more consistency across the lineup as the team looks to reach its lofty goals this season.

Why it matters

Mizzou is a team with high expectations this season, so a merely 'whelming' performance against Kentucky, even in a winning effort, raises some concerns about the team's ability to reach its full potential as it approaches the midpoint of the year and starts tabulating its NQS score.

The details

The Tigers had some excellent individual routines, including a career-high tying 9.95 from Kimarra Echols on bars, a season-best 9.90 from Elise Tisler on vault, and a 9.95 floor routine from Hannah Horton that tied her career high. However, the team struggled with consistency, as several gymnasts had uncharacteristic mistakes, including Olivia Kelly on beam and Addi Bown on her beam routine. Coach Welker said the team is still trying to find the right lineups and achieve more consistency across the board.

  • On July 4, Quinn allegedly dove onto the hood of a Waymo vehicle and covered sensors.
  • On July 29, Quinn allegedly damaged a Waymo's tires and driver's side mirror.
  • On August 11, Quinn allegedly stomped on a windshield while someone was inside.

The players

Shannon Welker

The head coach of the Missouri gymnastics team, who acknowledged the need for more consistency from his squad as they approach the midpoint of the season.

Lauren Macpherson

A Missouri gymnast who is grateful to be in the lineup this season after returning from injury, and is trying to use her experience to provide leadership for the team.

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What they’re saying

“We've had some really great things in areas, but we need to level that out be a little more consistent. So instead of three people doing really well and then a couple being off, you know, we've got to have at least five or six, you know, at a little bit more of a consistent level.”

— Shannon Welker, Head Coach

“I'm just grateful to even just be in the rotation. And there's like, so many people that could be in this lineup, we have amazing beam workers, like 14 of us I think... I really don't take it for granted.”

— Lauren Macpherson, Gymnast

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.