LSU Gymnastics advances to Elite 8, championship bound

The 'Stick Queens' claimed a spot in Fort Worth

Apr. 5, 2026 at 2:33am

The LSU gymnastics team has qualified for the NCAA National Championship after winning the 2026 NCAA Baton Rouge Regional competition. The Tigers scored a 197.825, with two perfect 10s from Kailin Chio on vault and Kaliya Lincoln on floor, to secure their spot in the semifinals in Fort Worth, Texas on April 16.

Why it matters

LSU gymnastics has become a powerhouse program, qualifying for the NCAA Championships for the fourth year in a row under head coach Jay Clark. The team's continued success and ability to produce elite gymnasts highlights the strength of the program and its commitment to excellence.

The details

The Tigers competed against Stanford, Michigan, and Clemson in the Baton Rouge Regional, taking the top spot with a dominant performance. LSU posted strong scores across all four events, including a 49.650 on floor exercise. However, the team suffered a setback when Konnor McClain was injured on uneven bars and unable to complete her routine.

  • The Baton Rouge Regional took place on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
  • The NCAA Championship Semifinals are scheduled for April 16, 2026 at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas.
  • LSU will compete in either the 3:30 p.m. or 8 p.m. session on April 16.

The players

Jay Clark

The head coach of the LSU gymnastics team, who has led the Tigers to four consecutive NCAA Championship appearances.

Kailin Chio

An LSU gymnast who scored a perfect 10 on vault during the Baton Rouge Regional competition.

Kaliya Lincoln

An LSU gymnast who scored a perfect 10 on floor exercise during the Baton Rouge Regional competition.

Konnor McClain

An LSU gymnast who was injured competing on uneven bars during the Baton Rouge Regional and was unable to complete her routine.

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What’s next

The Tigers will have to wait and see which session they'll compete in for the NCAA Championship Semifinals, either 3:30 p.m. or 8 p.m. on April 16 in Fort Worth.

The takeaway

LSU gymnastics has solidified its status as one of the top programs in the country, earning a spot in the NCAA Championships for the fourth consecutive year. The team's ability to overcome setbacks and produce elite individual performances highlights the depth and talent of the program, making them a formidable contender for the national title.