One of college athletics most popular athletes is glad she’s back for her fifth and final year of eligibility. LSU gymnast Olivia Dunne had strong performances on the balance beam and floor on Friday as the Tigers began defense of their first national championship with a win over Iowa State. Dunne says it was a blast performing again at the PMAC.
“The best way I can describe it is just, complete joy. I had a blast, and I feel like the decision to come back was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” Dunne said.
Dunne is one of the most followed college athletes on social media. On3.com says Dunne’s NIL valuation is 4.2 million dollars, the most of any female athlete. The New Jersey native could have pursued a career as a model and influencer full-time. But Dunne says her decision to return and try to win another national championship is the best decision she’s ever made.
“It’s just, the early mornings with the team, and the late nights, and travel meets. Those are memories that you’re never going get back. So, I can actually get emotional over it. It’s such a special time and it’s something that I’ll never forget. I’m just so happy to be back to experience it one last time with my best friends,” Dunne explained.
Dunne and the Tigers have a big meet this Saturday in Oklahoma City as they will compete against some of the best teams in the country, including Oklahoma, Utah and California. Head Coach Jay Clark embraces the challenge.
“Obviously Oklahoma, having won six of the last ten National Championships, is sort of the gold standard still that everybody is measured against, and so we are excited about the opportunity to go there and compete,” Clark said.
The meet will be televised by ABC at 3 PM on Saturday. LSU will start on vault.
