BYU Cougars Edge Out Clemson Tigers in Nail-Biter Gymnastics Meet

Cougars' standout beam performance proves decisive in 197.225-197.175 victory

Mar. 14, 2026 at 12:52am

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In a thrilling gymnastics showdown, the No. 24 BYU Cougars narrowly defeated the No. 14 Clemson Tigers 197.225-197.175 on Friday night. BYU's exceptional performance on the balance beam, highlighted by a career-high 9.975 from junior Brynlee Andersen-Broekman, was the key factor in securing the narrow victory.

Why it matters

This win showcases the depth and talent within the BYU gymnastics program, as they continue to compete at a high level against top-ranked opponents. The Cougars' ability to deliver clutch performances under pressure will be crucial as they set their sights on the upcoming Big 12 Gymnastics Championship.

The details

The meet began with BYU on bars, led by Alilah Alvarado's team-high 9.875. Vault saw the Cougars post a season-high 49.250, highlighted by senior Kylie Eaquinto's 9.900. Clemson maintained a narrow lead through the first three rotations, but BYU's exceptional beam performance in the final rotation, including Andersen-Broekman's perfect 10 from one judge, sealed the victory. The competition came down to the wire, with Chloee Hoke's career-high tying 9.875 on beam proving to be the decisive score.

  • The meet took place on Friday, March 14, 2026.
  • The Big 12 Gymnastics Championship is scheduled for Saturday, March 21, 2026.

The players

Kylie Eaquinto

A senior at BYU who continues to be a driving force for the Cougars, achieving a career-high all-around score of 49.475 to claim her first all-around title. She also secured her third vault event title of the season with a score of 9.900.

Brynlee Andersen-Broekman

A junior at BYU who delivered a standout performance on the balance beam, tying her career-high score of 9.975 and receiving a perfect 10 from one judge, ultimately earning the beam event title for the Cougars.

Alilah Alvarado

A BYU gymnast who led the team on bars with a score of 9.875.

Chloee Hoke

A BYU gymnast whose career-high tying 9.875 on beam proved to be the decisive score, securing the narrow victory for the Cougars.

Clemson Tigers

The No. 14 ranked gymnastics team that narrowly lost to BYU in the meet.

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What’s next

The Cougars will now set their sights on the Big 12 Gymnastics Championship, scheduled for Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the Maverik Center. Session times will be announced next week, and the championship will be streamed on ESPN+.

The takeaway

BYU's narrow victory over Clemson showcases the Cougars' ability to perform under pressure and their commitment to excellence in gymnastics. As they prepare for the Big 12 Championship, their strong beam performance and depth of talent will be key factors in their pursuit of further success.