Freshman LSU gymnast Amari Drayton has been making impressive progress, playing a key role in the…

LSU gymnast Amari Drayton has been making significant strides in her freshman year, contributing notably to the team’s successes. In April 2024, Drayton played a pivotal role in LSU’s first-ever NCAA National Championship win. Her performances on floor and vault were instrumental in securing the title, with the team achieving a final score of 198.225, surpassing competitors California, Utah, and Florida.

Earlier in the season, during her collegiate debut against Ohio State in January 2024, Drayton delivered an impressive vault routine, earning a score of 9.925. This standout performance garnered praise from gymnastics legends, including Simone Biles, who expressed her pride on social media.

Drayton’s consistent excellence throughout the season led to her being named SEC Co-Freshman of the Week in March 2024. Her peers, including Olympians Jordan Chiles and Joscelyn Roberson, extended their congratulations, highlighting the respect she has earned within the gymnastics community.

In addition to her athletic achievements, Drayton has excelled academically. In August 2024, she was among 15 LSU gymnasts named Scholastic All-Americans by the Women’s Collegiate Gymnastics Association, marking the highest number in the program’s history. Drayton achieved a GPA of 3.65 in Entrepreneurship, contributing to the team’s overall GPA of 3.5896, the highest in program history.

Drayton’s journey from a promising freshman to a key contributor to LSU’s gymnastics program exemplifies her dedication and talent. Her performances have not only brought accolades to the team but have also inspired her peers and garnered recognition from some of the sport’s most esteemed figures.