Results 

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – The No. 23 Illinois women's gymnastics team opened its 2023 campaign with the best season-opener in the Nadalie Walsh era, however, lost by .15 of a point with a 196.275 finish against No. 9 Missouri on Sunday afternoon in Huff Hall. 

"I feel very, very proud of the team," Walsh said. "They came in on fire, they were confident, they attacked their routines. They went out on floor and closed out the meet with a bang. I'm really excited with what this group is going to do this year. They wanted to make a statement nationally and I believe that they did."

The Illini started with a strong performance on vault with a stellar debut from sophomore  freshman Arielle Ward securing a 9.82 and MaKayla Green getting a 9.77. 

"Arielle and MaKayla started off their careers so well," Walsh said. "They just showed they were competitors and they are able to handle the pressure." 

Mia Takekawa posted a 39.475 in the all-around, including a first place finish in bars – scoring a 9.95 and tying her career high. She also took home a three-way tie on beam with a 9.95 as well. 

"It was phenomenal to see Mia compete in all-around," Walsh said. "She had a wonderful meet and I'm just very proud of her and her leadership."

Senior Mia Townes tied for first in two events, scoring a 9.900 on vault and floor to earn the titles. 

The Orange and Blue will hit the road to face Arizona next Saturday at 3 p.m. CT.