Despite injuries to 3 of the top contenders, I was still impressed with the level of difficulty. Almost all at U.S. Olympic trials would not look out of place in Paris.
Healy Rivera is only age-16. Her selection will be a surprise to many.
Spencer agrees with the decision:
Using best of the trials days, as well as the men’s methods—average across nationals and trials, and best 3 of 4 across nationals and trials—you also get the same team as the top five AA, which is exactly what the selection committee was looking for.
Joc and Leanne looked fantastic. If either has to step in, the U.S. would not be any diminished.
An American B-team might just finish on the podium.
So. Much. Depth.
If we picked gymnasts subjectively — as we do in sports like soccer, basketball, volleyball, etc. — I’d still go Simone, Suni, Jordan, Jade. Pick the next strongest AA as first reserve.
#5 would be best chance to win an apparatus medal.
Jordan is the obvious captain.
USA will win team gold with any combination — so long as Simone competes. (Exactly what Tom Forster said about Tokyo.)
I watched the NBC coverage for the first time in years. Much improved from the past.
Gymnastics Coaching.com 