The Rutgers Scarlet Knights gymnastics team is moving on by posting a 196.200 to defeat the Central Michigan Chippewas (195.700) in the opening round of the NCAA Lexington Regional on Thursday afternoon at Historic Memorial Coliseum.

The Scarlet Knights led from start to finish in a steady, complete performance. They took control early and never gave it back, using strong routines across all four events to secure the win.

Rutgers opened on uneven bars and scored a 48.825. Reagan Schenkel led the group with a 9.850, matching a career high and setting the tone for the meet.

The momentum carried to the vault, where Rutgers delivered one of its best performances of the season. The Scarlet Knights scored a 49.100, tying a season high and ranking among the top marks in program history. Vivienne Larsen and Rachael Riley each posted 9.850s to lead the rotation, while Lisa Chevaire added a 9.825.

On the floor, Rutgers continued to build its lead with a 49.275. All six gymnasts scored at least a 9.825. Gabrielle Dildy led the way with a 9.900, tying for the top score of the meet, while Emily Leese followed with a 9.875. Elliot Goldsmith contributed a 9.850 in a deep and balanced lineup.

Holding a lead entering the final rotation, Rutgers closed the door on the balance beam. All six routines hit, resulting in a 49.000. Keeley Smith delivered a meet-winning 9.850, while Matis Rains and Dildy each added 9.800s.

Central Michigan stayed within reach throughout the meet, highlighted by a 49.300 on floor. Luciana Alvarado-Reid tied for the top floor score with a 9.900 and finished second in the all-around at 39.125.

With the win, Rutgers advances to the regional semifinal, where it will face the No. 1 Oklahoma Sooners women’s gymnastics, No. 16 Kentucky Wildcats women’s gymnastics, and No. 18 Ohio State Buckeyes women’s gymnastics on Friday night. The top two teams from Friday’s sessions will move on to Sunday’s regional final.

The two semifinal rounds on Friday will be streamed on ESPN+, scheduled for 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.