NORMAN, Okla. — The Oklahoma women’s gymnastics team continues to dominate the collegiate landscape, maintaining the No. 1 ranking in the nation for the fourth consecutive week. The Sooners posted a National Qualifying Score (NQS) of 198.900, solidifying their position as the team to beat as the season progresses. This ranking, calculated using a new formula for 2026, reflects Oklahoma’s consistent performance and depth of talent.
The NQS, a crucial metric for NCAA gymnastics, is designed to provide a more accurate representation of a team’s ability throughout the season. For 2026, the Women’s Collegiate Gymnastics Association (WCGA) implemented an updated calculation method. Beginning with the seventh week of competition, the NQS is determined by averaging a team’s six best scores, dropping the highest and lowest results. This shift aims to provide a more stable and representative score as teams head toward postseason competition. After conference championships, the calculation will further refine to include at least five away meets and no more than five home meets, again dropping the highest and lowest scores before averaging.
Sooners’ Dominance on Display
Oklahoma’s NQS of 198.900 is built on a series of impressive scores, including a high of 198.425 and a consistent performance across their meets. The team’s strength is evident not only in their overall score but also in their event rankings. Currently, the Sooners hold the No. 1 spot on both vault (49.540) and beam (49.530), demonstrating their proficiency in these key areas. They also rank No. 4 on floor exercise (49.465) and No. 5 on uneven bars (49.370), showcasing a well-rounded team capable of excelling across all four events.
Individual Stars Shine
The team’s success is fueled by a roster of talented gymnasts, with several individuals achieving top rankings. Sophomore Addison Fatta has emerged as a standout performer, earning the No. 1 ranking in the nation on vault with an NQS of 9.945. Fatta also holds the No. 2 spot in the all-around competition (39.580), the highest ranking for any athlete in the Southeastern Conference, and is ranked No. 9 on beam, and No. 13 on bars. Her versatility and consistent performance are key assets for the Sooners.
Freshman Mackenzie Estep is also making a significant impact, securing rankings on multiple events. Estep is currently No. 3 on vault (9.920), No. 8 on bars (9.90), and No. 15 on floor exercise (9.895). Fellow freshmen Ella Murphy and Kamila Pawlak are also contributing to the team’s success, with Murphy ranked No. 7 on beam (9.910) and No. 19 on floor (9.890), while Pawlak is No. 15 on floor (9.895). These newcomers are quickly establishing themselves as integral parts of the Oklahoma lineup.
Experienced Leadership Complements Rising Talent
Beyond the impressive freshman class, experienced gymnasts are providing crucial leadership and stability. Junior Keira Wells is ranked No. 7 on vault (9.895) and No. 8 on beam (9.905), while senior Faith Torrez shares the No. 1 spot on beam (9.955) with LSU’s Kailing Chio. Sophomores Elle Mueller (No. 11 on floor, 9.905) and Lily Pederson (No. 25 on beam, 9.855) round out the list of ranked Sooners, demonstrating the team’s overall depth and consistency.
Looking Ahead: Matchup with LSU
The Oklahoma Sooners will return to action this Friday, hosting No. 2 LSU inside Lloyd Noble Center at 7:45 p.m. CT. The meet will be broadcast on ESPN2, offering fans a chance to witness the top two teams in the nation compete head-to-head. This highly anticipated matchup promises to be a thrilling display of athleticism and skill, and a key test for the Sooners as they continue their pursuit of a national championship. Fans can follow @OU_WGymnastics on Twitter and Instagram, or like Oklahoma Women’s Gymnastics on Facebook for updates.
The Sooners’ continued success hinges on maintaining their consistency and capitalizing on their individual strengths. With a challenging schedule ahead, including the upcoming meet against LSU, the team will need to remain focused and determined to maintain their position at the top of the rankings. The updated NQS calculation adds another layer of complexity to the competition, emphasizing the importance of consistent performance throughout the season.
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