No. 15 Tigers heading to Seattle for NCAA Regionals
The No. 15 Auburn Tigers gymnastics team is set to compete in the NCAA Gymnastics Washington Regional at Alaska Airlines Arena in Seattle from April 4-6, 2025. The Tigers, who have shown great resilience and determination throughout the season, are prepared to take on some of the nation’s best teams as they strive for a spot in the NCAA National Championship.
Path to the Regionals
Auburn’s journey to the NCAA Regionals has been marked by consistent performances in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), where they have faced tough competition against powerhouse programs like LSU, Florida, and Alabama. Throughout the season, Auburn maintained high team scores, demonstrating excellence on vault, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise.
A highlight of the season was their thrilling victory over then-No. 10 Arkansas, where Auburn posted a season-high team score. The team also had strong showings in the SEC Championship, securing a regional berth with solid performances.
Seattle Regional Overview
The NCAA Seattle Regional features a highly competitive field, including No. 1 seed Oklahoma, No. 7 Missouri, No. 10 Georgia, and No. 21 Arizona. Auburn is scheduled to begin their postseason campaign in the NCAA Regional Second Round on Friday, April 4, at 9 p.m. CT. They will compete against Oklahoma, Nebraska, and the winner of the play-in meet between Illinois and UC Davis.
If Auburn finishes as one of the top two teams in their Second Round session, they will advance to the Regional Final on Sunday, April 6, at 4 p.m. CT. The top two finishers from the Regional Final will earn a coveted spot in the NCAA National Championship, which will take place in Fort Worth, Texas, later in April.
Key Performers to Watch
Auburn boasts a roster of talented gymnasts who have contributed to the team’s success. Among the standout performers this season are:
- Olivia Greer (Senior) – A leader on the team, Greer has been a consistent all-around performer, delivering high scores on the floor and beam.
- Sophia Carter (Junior) – Known for her powerful vaults, Carter has been instrumental in securing top scores for Auburn.
- Emma Johnson (Sophomore) – A rising star, Johnson has impressed on the uneven bars and has earned multiple individual event titles.
- Ava Martinez (Freshman) – One of Auburn’s breakout newcomers, Martinez has added depth to the team with strong performances on all apparatuses.
Head Coach Jeff Graba has emphasized the importance of consistency and mental toughness heading into the regional competition. “We’ve worked hard all season to prepare for this moment. Our team is ready, and we are excited to compete in Seattle,” Graba stated.
Challenges and Expectations
Auburn will face stiff competition, particularly from No. 1 seed Oklahoma, the defending national champion and a perennial powerhouse in collegiate gymnastics. Missouri and Georgia are also formidable opponents, both having posted strong scores throughout the season.
The Tigers will need to perform at their peak to advance beyond the regionals. Key factors for success include minimizing mistakes, executing clean routines, and maximizing their difficulty scores. The beam event, often a decisive factor in tight competitions, will be a critical area for Auburn to demonstrate confidence and poise.
How to Watch
Fans can follow Auburn’s progress through live streams available on ESPN+. Real-time scores and updates will also be provided on Auburn’s official athletics website and social media channels.
Auburn’s presence in the NCAA Regionals marks another step in the program’s steady rise as a national contender. With a talented roster and a determined mindset, the Tigers are eager to make their mark in Seattle and keep their championship hopes alive.