BAKU, Azerbaijan - Two Illini, Brandon Dang and alum Alex Diab, represented Team USA men's gymnastics at the Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG) World Cup Series in Baku March 6-9. Both Illinois athletes were able to secure medals in their first international competitions of the season.
A still rings specialist, Diab's journey began on March 6, where he placed second in the qualifiers with a 14.000. When it was time for finals on March 8, Diab was able to duplicate his successes, earning a 13.766 to secure the bronze medal.
Dang showed complete poise for his first USA Gymnastics assignment, taking first in the qualification round with a 14.300. He tied fellow American Patrick Hoopes, but his higher execution score served as the tie breaker. In the event finals on March 9, Dang increased his difficulty score by 0.2, and it paid off when he placed first with a 14.633.
"What an incredible showing for the Illini at the Baku World Cup," said head coach Daniel Ribeiro. "Both Brandon and Alex represented the Fighting Illini with pride! For Brandon to win both prelims and finals in his first international meet of his career shows how ahead of the game this young man is. This is going to continue to build his confidence. There is so much more to come."
Dang will next represent Team USA at the FIG World Cup Series event in Antalya, Turkey March 20-23. Diab's next international assignment will be in Osijek, Croatia April 10-13.
