“This has been a big goal of mine for a long time.” With those heartfelt words at the pre-national conference on April 11, Jade Carey opened up about what’s been pushing her through four NCAA seasons, Olympic glory, and a comeback many would have never dared to make. But for Carey, chasing one more shot at a national title with Oregon State wasn’t about medals or fame. It was about finishing something she started with the people who’ve cheered her on every step of the way.
And that journey took another emotional turn as she stepped up for her final bars performance as an NCAA gymnast. Competing, Carey still has beam, vault, and her iconic floor routine left, but this bars set marked the last time she’ll ever swing under NCAA lights. She delivered a clean, composed routine, scoring a 9.9125. Solid, sharp, signature Jade. But this time, it wasn’t just about the score. It was the quiet close of one chapter in a career that’s brought tears, triumphs, and an unbreakable bond with Beaver Nation.
Even LSU Gymnastics took to X with the caption, “Honorary stick queen tonight @jadeacarey .” And honestly, the title couldn’t be more fitting. On a night packed with emotion, Jade Carey capped off her NCAA journey with the poise and power that have defined her career. Her bar routine scored a 9.9125, but fans weren’t measuring numbers. They were measuring moments. “Jade Carey’s last NCAA bar routine—someone help me ,” one fan posted, echoing what thousands were feeling across the country. Carey’s presence on the floor felt larger than life, even as the realization hit. This was the end of an era.
Honorary stick queen tonight @jadeacarey pic.twitter.com/0o6ZbtbvCU
— LSU Gymnastics (@LSUgym) April 18, 2025
Her final home meet back on March 21 gave fans a glimpse of Carey at her absolute best. Under the dazzling lights of Gill Coliseum, she shattered the “Queen of 9.975s” label and earned a perfect 10 on floor. Her tumbling was sharp, her landings flawless, and her artistry emotional. It was a masterclass in gymnastics and a love letter to her fans. The crowd erupted, the moment etched into Beaver history. And still, fans braced themselves for the goodbye. “Feeling all sorts of emotions getting ready to watch Jade Carey compete for possibly the last time,” one fan wrote. “Eight years have flown by far too quick.” Another simply said, “Absolutely sick thinking about Jade Carey retiring tonight.” That’s the weight of her legacy. One that’ll live long after the final salute.
The post Jade Carey’s Finale Performance Has Fans in Denial as Oregon Gymnastics Star Bids Final Goodbye appeared first on EssentiallySports.