Huskies Shine On Floor But Fall Just Short To No.34 Illinois

Washington gymnastics team scores 194.400 in narrow loss to Illinois

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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The University of Washington gymnastics team came up just short in their meet against No. 34 Illinois, scoring 194.400 to Illinois' 194.475. The Huskies had strong performances across multiple events, including vault, bars, and beam, but ultimately fell just short of the victory.

Why it matters

This was an important meet for the Washington gymnastics team as they look to build momentum and qualify for the NCAA Championships later in the season. Despite the narrow loss, the team's strong performances on several events demonstrate their potential and ability to compete with top-ranked programs.

The details

On vault, Mary McDonough led the Huskies with a 9.825, matching her season-high and earning the event title. Kira Bolden and Lilly Tubbs followed closely with matching 9.775s. On bars, Tubbs led the team with a 9.850, highlighted by a stunning dismount. Deiah Moody followed with a 9.825 to place third. The Huskies found their rhythm on beam, with Kristin Lin and Tubbs each scoring a 9.825 to tie for second overall. Chelsea Hallinan also had a memorable performance, paying tribute to the Seahawks ahead of the Super Bowl.

  • The meet took place on February 7, 2026.

The players

Mary McDonough

A member of the University of Washington gymnastics team who led the Huskies on vault with a 9.825, matching her season-high and earning the event title.

Kira Bolden

A member of the University of Washington gymnastics team who scored a 9.775 on vault, tying for second overall.

Lilly Tubbs

A member of the University of Washington gymnastics team who scored a 9.775 on vault, tying for second overall, and a 9.850 on bars, highlighting the event with a stunning dismount.

Deiah Moody

A member of the University of Washington gymnastics team who scored a 9.825 on bars, placing third overall.

Chelsea Hallinan

A member of the University of Washington gymnastics team who had a memorable performance on beam, paying tribute to the Seahawks ahead of the Super Bowl.

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What they’re saying

“GO HAWKS celly from Hallinan ????”

— Chelsea Hallinan, Gymnast (Twitter)

What’s next

The Huskies will look to build on their strong performance as they continue their season and work towards qualifying for the NCAA Championships.

The takeaway

Despite the narrow loss, the University of Washington gymnastics team demonstrated their ability to compete at a high level, with standout performances across multiple events. This meet showcases the team's potential and sets them up for continued success as they work towards their postseason goals.