Los Angeles, CA— Chae Campbell delivered a standout performance in No. 8 UCLA gymnastics’ dominant 197.200-194.700 victory over Illinois on Saturday afternoon, excelling in the all-around and stepping up when the team needed her most.
Campbell posted an impressive 39.400 across all four events, tying for first on vault alongside Jordan Chiles. Competing in the Bruins’ home opener and their second Big Ten meet of the season at Pauley Pavilion, Campbell embraced the moment.
“I want to soak up every opportunity I get,” Campbell said. “Staying present and making the most of each meet is what’s most important to me.”
With this win, the Bruins (5-2, 2-0 Big Ten) extended their streak of scoring above 197 to three consecutive meets. After opening the season with a 195.250, UCLA rebounded with back-to-back 197.550 scores before Saturday’s victory over Illinois (3-2, 1-1 Big Ten).
Floor Brings the Energy:
The meet concluded with UCLA’s signature floor rotation, creating an electric atmosphere. Emma Malabuyo set the tone with a 9.925, followed by true freshman Macy McGowan’s dynamic 9.875 routine infused with Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” influences.
Brooklyn Moors and Campbell each contributed 9.90 scores, while Chiles anchored the event with a show-stopping, Prince-inspired performance that earned a 9.95.
“We’re feeding off the energy of the crowd and just enjoying every moment,” Malabuyo said. “That’s when we perform our best.”
Vault Brings Season High, Beam Shows Resilience:
UCLA matched its season-high vault score with a 49.725, led by Campbell’s season-best 9.925 and Emily Lee’s leadoff 9.90, which tied her career high.
However, the Bruins faced early challenges on balance beam. Lee had minor wobbles in her opening routine, and Katelyn Rosen suffered a fall on her back handspring layout. But the experience of Campbell, Moors, and Malabuyo proved crucial, as they posted 9.850, 9.875, and 9.900, respectively, to steady the team.
Head coach Janelle McDonald praised Campbell’s poise under pressure.
“It gave me chills watching her attack her routine,” McDonald said. “A year ago, she might not have handled that moment the same way. That was a huge leadership moment for her.”
Although UCLA’s 49.150 on beam was its second-lowest of the season, McDonald saw positives in how the team rebounded.
“It wasn’t our best score, but the way they rallied after a mistake showed a lot of confidence and aggression,” McDonald said. “Those moments will help us become the strongest team we can be.”
Uneven Bars Sees Mixed Results:
The uneven bars rotation also presented some challenges, as the Bruins recorded their second-lowest event score of the season with a 49.225. Despite the minor setbacks, specialist Frida Esparza shined, winning the event with a season-high 9.925.
Throughout the meet, the pace remained inconsistent due to a new NCAA rule requiring judges to receive feedback from a committee, leading to extended pauses between routines.
While Chiles performed an exhibition routine, she did not compete in the all-around after participating in all four events last week.
With another solid performance under their belt, the Bruins will look to build on their momentum as they continue their season.
UCLA will return to Pauley Pavilion next week to square up with No. 4 Michigan State – the top ranked BIG10 Conference this year.
