Mya Hooten’s swan song at the 2025 NCAA Championships was nothing short of poetic. Bringing back her iconic 2022 routine set to Beyoncé’s “Freedom” wasn’t just a nostalgic move — it was a powerful tribute to a legacy built on resilience, artistry, and impact. In a sport where moments define careers, this one sealed hers in history.
Did She Cement Herself as Minnesota’s Greatest?
Absolutely. Here’s why:
1. Historic Firsts & Consistent Greatness:
First-ever perfect 10 on floor in program history? That was Mya.
Nine perfect 10s in total, the most ever by a Gopher.
Big Ten Floor Champion three consecutive years (2022–2024).
Multiple All-American honors, including her freshman year through senior season.
2. Legacy of Influence:
She didn’t just dominate; she redefined Minnesota gymnastics’ national relevance. Her routines were more than athletic performances — they were cultural statements. The “Freedom” routine remains one of the most celebrated in NCAA history, not just because of Beyoncé, but because of how Mya embodied its message.
3. Going Out on Her Terms:
Despite not qualifying as a team, Hooten stood alone in Fort Worth and still delivered the best floor score in the championship — 9.8875. That’s an exclamation mark, even if fans rightfully believe it should’ve been a perfect 10.
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So, what’s the final verdict?
Mya Hooten isn’t just the greatest floor worker in Minnesota history — she’s one of the most important athletes to wear maroon and gold. Period.
Individual leaders:
VT – Ady Wahl, Georgia, 9.875*
UB – Jordan Bowers, OU, 9.9375
BB – Selena Harris-Miranda, Florida, 9.95
FX – Mya Hooten, Minnesota, 9.8875*
*-unattached, team not in final https://t.co/LDz9yNGuxZ— Scott Rabalais (@RabalaisAdv) April 17, 2025
Now I’m curious:
Do you think her career should’ve ended on a perfect 10? Or does the 9.8875 almost add to her underdog legend — like she was always more than the number on the screen?