The final session of the Super 16 meet brings us two exciting in-state rivalries with UCLA vs. California and Alabama vs. Auburn respectively. All four teams have qualified to Nationals within the last two seasons, and all four will be looking to do the same this year. Although not first in the rankings, California is arguably the favorite to win this meet. They have minimal lineup turnover, all-around star eMjae Frazier entering her sophomore year, and former five-star recruits Kyen Mayhew and Annalise Newman-Achee making their season debuts. UCLA is also in a strong position, but with star Jordan Chiles and Ana Padurariu taking the year off to prepare for the Olympics, the Bruin lineups will have to hit without relying on Chiles’ star power.
Although California and UCLA are the more likely candidates to win the meet, it’s entirely possible for Alabama to pull off an upset if everyone performs to the best of their ability. Alabama is led by fifth-year star Luisa Blanco and has one of the top-rated freshmen classes. As for Auburn, the Tigers will be looking to prove that they are still a contender without superstars Sunisa Lee and Derrian Gobourne. While a win seems more unlikely for them, they can certainly put pressure on the other three teams.
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