The University of Utah’s women’s gymnastics team secured its second consecutive Big 12 regular season title with a win over the University of Denver. The meet, held in Denver, ended with Utah scoring 197.200 points to Denver’s 196.100.
Utah started strong on the bars, earning a team score of 49.325 and taking an early lead over Denver, which scored 49.175 in the same event. Makenna Smith opened for Utah with a score of 9.825, followed by Ella Zirbes at 9.875, Ana Padurariu at 9.900, and Avery Neff closing with a top score of 9.950.
On vault, Utah maintained its advantage with a team total of 49.150. Camie Winger posted a 9.800, Zoe Johnson earned a 9.825, Avery Neff scored a 9.875, and Makenna Smith led with a score of 9.925 after sticking her landing.
The Red Rocks increased their lead on floor exercise by posting a score of 49.450 as they headed into the final rotation ahead of Denver by more than one point (147.925 – 146.875). Avery Neff contributed a 9.875, while Ella Zirbes matched her career high with a score of 9.950. Smith and freshman Sage Curtis each added scores of 9.925; for Curtis it was her best so far.
In the final rotation on beam, Utah finished strong with a team score of 49.275 to secure the victory over Denver by just over one point overall (197.200 – 196.100). Zirbes returned to the beam lineup for the first time since January and earned a score of 9.825 alongside Abbi Ryssman who also posted a 9.825; Padurariu added another solid routine at 9.875 while Neff matched her career high again at 9.950.
Avery Neff won the all-around title for the fifth week in a row with an overall score of 39.650; Ella Zirbes took second place in her first all-around appearance since competing against Arizona State University.
Looking ahead, Utah will finish its Big 12 regular season schedule at home in Salt Lake City’s Huntsman Center during a tri-meet against West Virginia and BYU on Saturday, March 7 at 3 p.m Mountain Time.
Fans are invited to attend Senior Day to recognize Makenna Smith, Ana Padurariu, Ashley Glynn, and Sarah Krump in their final home meet.
For those unable to attend in person, coverage will be available via ESPN+ with Alisa Mowe and Nick Koop providing commentary.
Supporters can follow updates about Utah Gymnastics through social media channels including TikTok (@utahgymnastics) and Instagram (@utahgymnastics), or by downloading the official University of Utah mobile app UTAH360.
