Winter weather couldn’t stop the Alabama gymnastics team from picking up its first victory of the season, as the Crimson Tide defeated the North Carolina Tarheels 197.025-195.225 at Coleman Coliseum in Tuscaloosa on Friday.
Alabama claimed all five event titles on the evening—punctuated by three from junior Gabby Gladieux—including vault, floor exercise, and all-around. Tide freshman Paityn Walker claimed the highest score on the uneven bars, while senior Lilly Hudson earned a share of the title on the balance beam.
Five different Alabama gymnasts scored a 9.900 or higher to begin their 2025 campaign, highlighted by Walker’s 9.900 on the uneven bars. Gladieux (39.575) and Hudson (39.550) competed in the all-around, finishing first and second, respectively.
Making their collegiate debuts for the Crimson Tide were Walker, Ryan Fuller, Kylee Kvamme, and sophomore Gabby Ladanyi.
“Overall, I think that was a really great start for us,” said Alabama head coach Ashley Johnston. “Of course, we have things we’re already going to be thinking about tweaking, building, and adjusting. I really couldn’t have asked for anything more than to start the season with a young team that delivered a strong, scary statement to the gymnastics world.”
Next, the Tide travels to Lexington, Kentucky, to face the Kentucky Wildcats on January 17. TG
Cover image: Alabama’s Shania Adams. Photos courtesy UA Athletics.
