This is an intriguing dual, made more intriguing by Iowa star Jerquavia Henderson announcing her apparent retirement yesterday. Iowa is likely still favored: The Hawkeyes, comfortable at home, still have plenty of depth, while the Washington team we saw at Super 16 is a team that’s still putting some things together. There is the potential for this one to get really close, though.
For Washington, a strong freshman class is working its way into lineups. Kristin Lin competed and hit three events in her debut, but will need to land better as the season goes on to meet her potential. Chelsea Hallinan was a resounding success in the lead off position on beam, while Mary McDonough, believed to be working back from a preseason injury, fell on her bars exhibition but showed great form that will definitely become part of the late-season picture for the Huskies. Avoiding a repeat of last week’s counted fall on bars is the easiest way for Washington to improve on its opening gambit.
Iowa is more of an unknown since this is its debut for the 2024 season. You can once again expect Adeline Kenlin and Karina Munoz as scoring leaders who contribute on three or four events each. Don’t forget transfer Ilka Juk, whose beam work looks the best it ever has and who can contribute…
