The University of Arkansas fought hard in Tuscaloosa on Friday evening, but came up short, falling to the Crimson Tide 196.625-196.100. Sophomore Kennedy Hambrick earned her third-straight and fourth career all-around title, finishing with a 39.400.
Rotation One | Bars
Redshirt-freshman Bailey Lovett was the highlight of the first rotation for Arkansas, scoring a team-best 9.875, ranking second among all routines. Her 9.875 ties her career high and makes it seven-straight meets with a 9.825 or better in the event. Her ray and bail handstand helped the Gymbacks to an overall 49.050 in the first rotation.
Rotation Two | Vault
After a shaky start on the vault, the Gymbacks bounced back with three-straight 9.800s over better from Sarah Shaffer, Hambrick and Amanda Elswick. Elswick has only been in the vault lineup for two weeks and her Yurchenko full has led the Razorbacks both times. Arkansas trailed 97.875-98.575 after scoring a 48.825 on the vault.
Rotation Three | Floor
The Gymbacks’ highest team score came on the floor tonight, finishing with a 49.175 in the event. It makes 17 consecutive meets in which Arkansas scored a 49.000 or better on the floor. Lovett helped cut away at Alabama’s lead with a title-earning 9.925, executing her sky-high double layout with ease. Hambrick and Carter scored a 9.850 and 9.875 respectively, leaving the Hogs just .050 points behind the Tide (147.100-147.050).
Rotation Four | Beam
Arkansas would outscore Alabama 49.050-48.525 on the beam, posting four-straight 9.800s to close out the night. Hambrick earned her fourth career beam title with a 9.875, putting on a show for the fans with her back handspring and sticking her cartwheel gainer-full dismount.
Arkansas will return to Barnhill Arena on Feb. 21 against Auburn for Women’s Empowerment Night. The Gymbacks will be celebrating the women who have paved the way and made an impact in our society and local community.
First 1,500 fans will receive an inspirational quote bracelet & custom Razorback Gymnastics Women’s Empowerment sticker, kids 12 and under could win one of three American Girl Dolls and there will also be a post-meet dance party for kids 12 and under.
Visit ArkansasRazorbacks.com for the latest information on all things Arkansas Gymnastics. You can also find the Hogs on social media by liking us on Facebook (Arkansas Razorback Gymnastics) and following us on Twitter and Instagram (@RazorbackGym).
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