Aly Raisman Brings Olympic Spirit to NCAA Commentary

Six-time Olympic medalist Aly Raisman is trading in her leotard for a fresh challenge - providing commentary for this week’s NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Championships in Fort Worth, Texas. The iconic American gymnast, known for her fierce determination in competition, is bringing that same intensity to the broadcast booth.

“Preparation is really important, just like when I was competing or training,” said Raisman. “When I competed well, it was because of the preparation and knowing I did everything I could. I’m still working on it and learning, but I have really enjoyed the process.”

Raisman made her commentary debut earlier this season and is working alongside experienced broadcaster John Roethlisberger, himself a three-time Olympic gymnast. While admitting she’s “very nervous” during live broadcasts, Raisman welcomes pushing herself out of her comfort zone.

“It’s been a really exciting and interesting challenge,” she explained. “With live TV, there’s not a lot of time to talk, so you have to make your point quickly but in a way that is easy for new fans and long-time gymnastics lovers to understand.”

One key storyline Raisman plans to highlight is the impressive gymnasts attempting to balance elite skills and collegiate competition, which wasn’t feasible during her prime due to different rules around sponsorships and amateur status. Today’s stars like Suni Lee and Jade Carey can capitalize on endorsements while still representing their universities.

“It’s really impressive how they are navigating [elite and college gymnastics]. I think a lot of these gymnasts are training two different routines…it’s not easy,” Raisman stated. “When I was competing, I was called the grandma for being 22 years old, so I love to see how now it’s becoming more normal for gymnasts to come back after their collegiate career or as a freshman. I want to make a big deal about the athletes that are doing both because I don’t think people realize how challenging and difficult it is.”

All eyes will be on the powerhouse University of Oklahoma squad, aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive national title. The Sooners have won 6 of the last 9 championships and set the all-time team scoring record just last month. Raisman sees their incredible depth and impeccable attention to detail as keys to their dynastic run.

“You could argue making the lineup as an Oklahoma gymnast is almost harder for them than actually competing,” she said. “They push each other to the next level in practice. It’s really their attention to detail, their form is just unbelievable. It’s impeccable. It’s really hard to find a deduction when you’re watching them. They train every day like they’re at the national championship.”

While Oklahoma is favored, Raisman hopes for an “awesome competition” where every gymnast has their best day. “It would be awesome if everyone had their best day and really to see which team comes out on top,” she said.

No matter the outcome, Raisman’s new role allows her to stay connected to the sport she loves while bringing a fresh, elite perspective to NCAA gymnastics coverage. And if her approach is anything like her Olympic performances, viewers are in for a passionate, insightful commentary.