Aleah Finnegan of LSU displays a glittering purple and black leotard at the NCAA Championships

In the bright spotlight of the NCAA Gymnastics Championships, Aleah Finnegan once again proved why she’s not just one of the sport’s most elegant performers, but also a beacon of power, passion, and pride for LSU. Sporting a dazzling purple and black leotard that shimmered under the arena lights, Finnegan wasn’t just competing—she was commanding attention, representing the Tigers with every graceful motion and explosive tumbling pass.

The leotard—adorned with a radiant combination of rhinestones, tiger stripes, and subtle gold accents—quickly became a social media sensation. But beyond the glitz and glamor, it symbolized everything that Finnegan embodies: boldness, grace, and the unrelenting pursuit of excellence.

A Leotard That Told a Story

Designed in collaboration with LSU’s creative team and Finnegan’s input, the leotard wasn’t just a fashion statement. The rich purple and black mirrored LSU’s signature palette, while the sparkle elements gave off a sense of regality and resilience. “When I saw the design, I knew it was the one,” Finnegan said post-meet. “It felt powerful. I wanted to wear something that made me feel strong and beautiful—and something that reminded me why I do this.”

Indeed, LSU gymnastics has always taken pride in its leotards—each one carefully crafted to showcase the program’s elite status and its athletes’ personalities. But Finnegan’s look at the NCAA Championships felt like more than just gear; it felt like a celebration of her journey.

Dominating on the Floor and in the Air

In her floor routine, Finnegan commanded the mat with a blend of classical ballet and fierce athleticism. The moment the music hit, the crowd quieted—then exploded with cheers mid-routine as she nailed her first tumbling pass, a sky-high double layout that seemed to defy gravity. As her leotard sparkled with each leap and turn, so did her confidence. She earned a roaring ovation and a massive 9.950 from the judges.

“That floor routine was something special,” LSU head coach Jay Clark said. “Aleah brings artistry that’s so rare. And when she sticks those landings with that much poise—it’s just magical.”

On beam, Finnegan was even more breathtaking. The precision in her acro series—back handspring layout step-out—was textbook. Combined with her smooth choreography and a laser-focused dismount, she posted another huge score: 9.925.

Even in a stacked field of NCAA All-Americans, Olympians, and rising stars, Finnegan stood out—not only because of her scoring potential but because of the way she carried herself. Her poise, energy, and elegance radiated beyond the routines.

A Journey of Resilience

Aleah Finnegan’s gymnastics story is as compelling as her performances. After competing as an elite gymnast and being part of the U.S. national team, she made a life-changing decision to represent the Philippines, her mother’s homeland, on the international stage. She qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics, becoming the first Filipino gymnast in over two decades to do so.

But LSU has been her constant through it all. “Coming to LSU was the best decision of my life,” Finnegan said. “It gave me the opportunity to grow—not just as a gymnast, but as a woman. I’ve found a family here.”

That resilience, born from years of challenges, injuries, and pressure, has culminated in a senior season that feels like the peak of a fairy tale. The NCAA Championships were a stage she had earned, and she made the most of it.

Elevating LSU’s National Status

The Tigers, fueled by Finnegan’s fire and a talented supporting cast, entered the championships ranked among the top four teams in the country. With Kiya Johnson, Haleigh Bryant, and Finnegan anchoring the lineup, LSU had depth, artistry, and power across all four events.

Though the team fell just short of the national title, their performances were nothing short of extraordinary. LSU fans packed the arena in full purple-and-gold force, waving signs and roaring with every big moment.

And through it all, Finnegan was at the heart of the energy. “When Aleah performs, you can feel it in your chest,” said teammate Haleigh Bryant. “She brings that something extra—not just in the skills, but in the soul.”

Style Meets Substance

Gymnastics is often described as a sport where fashion and athleticism intersect. In NCAA competition, especially, leotards are a way for teams to express identity and unity—and for athletes to connect with fans. Finnegan’s purple-and-black masterpiece struck that perfect chord.

Gym fans online buzzed about the leotard all weekend. Twitter (now X), Reddit, and Instagram lit up with comments like: “Aleah’s leotard is EVERYTHING,” and “Queen behavior on beam and in style.”

But it wasn’t just about the sparkle—it was about what the leotard represented. “Wearing LSU across my chest is a privilege,” Finnegan said. “And when I put on something that’s this beautiful and empowering, it just reminds me to give it my all.”

A Role Model for the Next Generation

Finnegan’s impact reaches far beyond the gym. She’s become a role model for young gymnasts in both the U.S. and the Philippines. Her dual representation has helped bring international attention to Filipino gymnastics, and her humility and grace have earned admiration from fans across the globe.

“She shows that you can be elite and kind, focused and fun,” said a young fan outside the arena, holding a sign that read: ‘Aleah is my hero!’

Finnegan has often spoken about how she hopes to inspire others, especially young girls who might not always see someone who looks like them on the podium. “Representation matters,” she said. “When I compete for LSU or for the Philippines, I want kids to know they can do anything.”

Looking Ahead: The Olympic Dream

With the NCAA season now behind her, all eyes turn to Paris, where Finnegan will wear the Filipino flag in pursuit of Olympic dreams. Her NCAA experience has prepared her for the pressure and stagecraft of the Games, and her routines are polished to perfection.

“I’ve never felt more prepared,” she said. “This NCAA season gave me confidence. It showed me I can compete under pressure and still find joy in every moment.”

Coach Jay Clark echoed the sentiment: “She’s going to represent LSU and her heritage on the biggest stage in the world—and she’s going to do it with class and fire.”

Legacy at LSU

As her collegiate career wraps up, Finnegan leaves behind a powerful legacy at LSU. She helped elevate the program to new heights, inspired thousands, and proved that strength and grace can coexist.

From viral moments in glittering leotards to clutch routines that brought Tiger fans to their feet, Aleah Finnegan has defined this era of LSU gymnastics.

“We’ll be talking about Aleah for years,” said Coach Clark. “She’s not just one of the best to wear the purple and gold—she’s one of the most beloved.”

The Final Bow in Purple and Black

As Finnegan took her final bow at the NCAA Championships, the arena stood in unified applause. She blew a kiss to the crowd, her purple and black leotard sparkling one last time under the spotlight. It wasn’t just an end—it was a celebration. A moment that encapsulated everything she brought to the sport: style, strength, and the heart of a Tiger.