By Loveth 
Alabama gymnastics showed up strong in Friday’s NCAA regional meet in Tuscaloosa, snagging a second-place finish to move on to Sunday’s final. And it was two familiar names—Lilly Hudson and Gabby Gladieux—who brought the energy to close it out.
The senior-junior duo absolutely nailed their floor routines back-to-back, each scoring a 9.950. That helped the Crimson Tide score a 49.600 on floor—the highest of the session and the team’s second-best this season. Hudson and Gladieux tied for the event title with two Cal gymnasts who also performed last for their team.
Gladieux said the team just focused on doing what they always do in practice and trusted each other throughout the lineup. Hudson added that she and Gladieux work well together, building off each other’s energy.
Head coach Ashley Johnston wasn’t shy about giving them props. She pointed out how tough their routines really are—Hudson’s E-pass earns a big bonus, and Gladieux’s full out is one of the most dynamic she’s ever seen. But both gymnasts make it look easy because of how hard they train.
With those clutch performances, Alabama moves on to the regional final Sunday at 5 p.m. CT at home in Coleman Coliseum.