Jordan Bowers’ Honda Award victory is more than an individual honor — it represents the journey of a young woman who turned challenges into opportunities and made the most of every moment in her collegiate career
In an age when athletes are increasingly seen as multifaceted figures — scholars, leaders, advocates — Bowers exemplifies this new standard. Her story will inspire not just aspiring gymnasts but all young athletes striving to leave their mark.
She departs as an embodiment of what gymnastics, at its best, can offer—a path to personal growth, deep connections, and lifelong memories.
In every twist, tumble, and triumphant landing, Bowers showcased excellence, passion, and heart.
Her next chapter as a student conditioning coach promises to carry forward the values she learned in the gym, inspiring a new generation of athletes with the same fire that made her a champion.
From junior standout to NCAA all-around queen, Jordan Bowers’ journey reminds us that the end of an athletic career is never truly the end—it’s simply the beginning of something new.
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Jordan Bowers Bids Farewell to Gymnastics
A Career of Dedication, Excellence, and Grace
Jordan Bowers, the 2025 NCAA all-around gymnastics champion and standout athlete of the Oklahoma Sooners, has officially announced her retirement from gymnastics at the age of 22.1
Her announcement, delivered via a heartfelt Instagram post, marks the end of a glittering athletic chapter that has spanned two decades—from junior competitions to elite representation, culminating in collegiate excellence.
This piece will reflect on the highlights of Bowers’ remarkable career, explore her legacy in the sport, and shed light on her personal growth and future ambitions.
Early Beginnings: A Star in the Making
Hailing from Lincoln, Nebraska, Jordan Bowers began her gymnastics journey at a young age. Like many elite gymnasts, her introduction to the sport came early, with her natural talent evident from the start.
She quickly advanced through the Junior Olympic levels, catching national attention as a rising talent.
By the time she reached her teenage years, Bowers had already made a name for herself on the junior international stage. Her precision, artistic flair, and technical consistency were key markers of her style, helping her stand out among her peers.
Jordan Bowers: Dominance on the International Stage
One of Bowers’ earliest and most significant milestones came when she represented Team USA at the Junior Pan American Championships.2
Competing at this prestigious event, she clinched four gold medals—an extraordinary feat that cemented her status as one of the most promising young gymnasts in the country.
Her victories at the Pan Ams included standout performances in the all-around, floor exercise, uneven bars, and team competitions.
These wins showcased not only her versatility but also her composure under pressure. They provided her with a strong foundation and valuable experience as she continued her ascent in the gymnastics world.
The Transition to NCAA Gymnastics
Bowers’ collegiate gymnastics career began when she joined the Oklahoma Sooners, one of the most decorated programs in NCAA history. Under the guidance of head coach K.J. Kindler, Bowers flourished as both an athlete and a leader.
In her time with the Sooners, Bowers helped her team to three NCAA national championships. She became a consistent contributor in the all-around and a dependable performer on each apparatus, particularly excelling in floor routines and vault, where her charisma and athleticism shone brightest.
The 2025 season marked the pinnacle of her collegiate career when she was crowned the NCAA all-around champion. That title was not just a recognition of her technical prowess, but also a celebration of her perseverance and leadership on one of the nation’s most elite squads.
THUNDER UP💙🧡 https://t.co/sdZqLPj59H
— jordan bowers (@jordansbowers) June 6, 2025
A Legacy of Resilience and Team Spirit
Throughout her career, Bowers was known for more than just her medals. Her resilience—through injuries, setbacks, and the everyday challenges of elite training—became a defining aspect of her identity.
In interviews and social media posts, she often spoke about the importance of mental strength, the value of trusting the process, and how gymnastics shaped her character. As she noted in her retirement post:
“This sport has taught me resilience, determination, patience, trust, love, and passion.”
Such reflections are consistent with how coaches, teammates, and fans describe her: as someone who brought positivity to the gym, gave her all for the team, and served as a role model for younger athletes.
Jordan Bowers: Gratitude and Growth
A Heartfelt Farewell
Bowers’ retirement message, shared with her followers on Instagram, was both touching and inspiring.3
She recounted her journey from a young girl with big dreams to a seasoned athlete who wore the red, white, and blue of Team USA and the crimson of the Sooners with immense pride.
“The final bow ❤️ The past 20 years have been everything I could’ve dreamed of and more,” she wrote.
The post radiated gratitude—toward the sport, her coaches, teammates, and most notably, her family. She also extended a heartfelt thanks to her fiancé, Raydel Gamboa, crediting him with being a constant pillar of support throughout her journey.
Such public acknowledgment of her support system added a deeply personal layer to the retirement note. It served as a reminder that behind every elite athlete is a circle of unwavering love, encouragement, and sacrifice.
A New Chapter in Conditioning and Coaching
Despite closing the chapter on competitive gymnastics, Bowers is far from done contributing to the sport.
In her post, she shared her aspirations to become a student conditioning coach—a natural fit given her firsthand experience with athletic training, injury management, and physical development.
This move reflects a growing trend among former elite gymnasts who remain within the ecosystem of the sport, shaping the next generation through coaching and mentorship. With her experience and insight, Bowers is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact on young athletes’ lives in this new role.
Her transition also symbolizes personal evolution—moving from performance to guidance, from athlete to educator. In a field where strength, discipline, and wellness intersect, Bowers will bring a wealth of knowledge and empathy that few others possess.
Tributes from the Gymnastics Community
- Following her announcement, tributes and messages of appreciation poured in from teammates, coaches, fans, and members of the wider gymnastics community.
- Oklahoma’s gymnastics program celebrated her achievements and thanked her for her leadership. Former teammates expressed admiration for her work ethic, generosity, and commitment to team success.
- Even fans—many of whom had followed her since her junior elite days—shared memories of their favorite routines and how Bowers had inspired them over the years.
- These tributes underscore the legacy she leaves behind: not just as a champion, but as a genuinely beloved figure in the gymnastics world.
- Jordan Bowers’ story is not only one of competitive excellence but also of growth, humility, and balance.
- Her ability to evolve through different stages of her career, adapt to changing challenges, and remain grounded through it all makes her a powerful role model for the next wave of gymnasts.
- Young athletes can look to her journey and learn that success is not just about winning medals—it’s also about embracing the process, cherishing the team, and knowing when to gracefully close one chapter and begin another.
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Jordan Bowers’ Emotional Reaction to the Honor
In a heartfelt interview following the announcement, Jordan Bowers expressed deep gratitude and humility upon receiving the Honda Award.
“I am so extremely grateful to be the Honda Award Winner for the sport of gymnastics. Winning this award is truly a dream come true and I couldn’t do it without the people who support me the most, and this incredible university,” Bowers stated.
Her words reflected not only joy but also a deep appreciation for the team of supporters — coaches, teammates, family, and university staff — who stood by her throughout her collegiate journey.
The award was not just a personal victory; it was a celebration of a community that empowered her to achieve greatness.
Leadership on the Mat and Beyond
Bowers didn’t just lead with her routines — she led with her presence. Teammates and coaches alike often highlighted her work ethic, positivity, and ability to stay calm under pressure.
Whether she was anchoring the lineup on beam or encouraging a freshman preparing for her first routine, Jordan played a vital leadership role within the Sooners’ locker room.
Head coach K.J. Kindler described Bowers as “the glue” of the team — someone whose consistent performances and unwavering attitude helped galvanize the squad during pivotal moments of the season.
Jordan Bowers: Bachelore Party
Glimpses Jordan Bowers shared from her Bachelore Party with the girls gang on her instagram account.
View this post on Instagram
Dominance in the All-Around Competition
One of the highlights of Bowers’ 2025 season was her stunning performance in the all-around competition. Scoring above 39.700 in multiple meets, Bowers showcased elite-level consistency across vault, bars, beam, and floor.
Her all-around title at the NCAA Championships was a masterclass in technical precision and artistic brilliance.
Her routines, marked by a combination of grace and explosive athleticism, drew comparisons to some of the best NCAA gymnasts in history. Judges, analysts, and fans were unanimous in their praise of her poise and execution.
Near Perfection on the Floor
Although Bowers finished as the runner-up in the floor exercise at the national meet, many considered her routine one of the most memorable of the championship.
Packed with difficult tumbling passes and expressive choreography, it captured the spirit of collegiate gymnastics — equal parts sport and performance art.
What made her floor performance stand out wasn’t just technical difficulty; it was the emotional connection she forged with the crowd.
From the moment the music started, the audience was captivated, reacting with roars after every tumbling pass and leap.
Jordan Bowers: Academic and Community Achievements
Beyond the gymnastics mat, Jordan Bowers excelled in the classroom and in community engagement.
Majoring in kinesiology, she maintained an impressive GPA and regularly volunteered in youth mentorship programs and gymnastics clinics in Norman, Oklahoma.
Her ability to balance rigorous training with academic excellence and service commitments reflected the holistic values championed by the Honda Award.
Bowers proved that being a student-athlete is about more than titles and trophies — it’s about integrity, perseverance, and impact.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy at Oklahoma
Jordan Bowers’ time at the University of Oklahoma will be remembered for more than just her accolades.
She helped raise the standard of excellence in the Sooners program, becoming a role model for younger gymnasts and a representative of what it means to be a Sooner.
Under her influence, Oklahoma continued its dominance as one of the NCAA’s powerhouse programs. With Bowers setting the tone, the team culture evolved to one of high expectations, accountability, and unity. Her name will undoubtedly join the legends who have donned the crimson and cream.
While Bowers hasn’t publicly confirmed her post-collegiate plans, speculation is rife that she could continue her involvement in gymnastics, possibly through coaching, choreography, or advocacy work within the sport.
Given her talent, charisma, and leadership, there’s little doubt she will remain connected to gymnastics in some capacity. Fans and experts alike are eager to see what’s next for one of the brightest stars of NCAA gymnastics in recent years.
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