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Coming up through Ocean Tumblers, she has racked up impressive titles like national bar champion and even made the U.S. national team in both 2018 and 2021. So, when she landed at the University of Georgia in 2025, it was no surprise that she absolutely dominated. a force to be reckoned with in gymnastics, she consistently led the Bulldogs on vault, bars, beam, and in the all-around, putting on electric performances that truly lit up Athens. But despite all her success, something wasn’t quite right. What could possibly make a star like Naya walk away from such a brilliant run?

Then, on April 12, 2025, Naya dropped a bombshell on Instagram, announcing she was leaving Georgia’s gymnastics team. “After some reflection,” she wrote, “I’ve decided to explore new places and opportunities that feel more in line with the direction I see for myself.” A month later, on May 26, she spoke even more candidly, stating, “I’ve learned that ‘trust the process’ doesn’t apply when the process is flawed.” 

 

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A post shared by Naya Howard (@nayahoward01)

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This pointed remark, seemingly aimed at the program led by Cecile Canqueteau-Landi (who used to coach Simone Biles!), hinted at some serious underlying issues. While Georgia’s 2025 season, under Canqueteau-Landi and Ryan Roberts, wasn’t a total wash—they finished third at the NCAA Washington Regional—it wasn’t the championship they’d hoped for either.

It left everyone wondering what exactly was brewing behind the scenes that pushed Naya to this point. But Naya’s story isn’t about giving up. Just recently, she shared some incredibly exciting news on Instagram: “I’ve been given a second chance! I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be transferring to MSU on a full ride!”

Her move to Michigan State University isn’t just a change of scenery; it’s a fresh start, a full scholarship fueling her comeback. Naya’s resilience is truly inspiring, and she made it clear she’s far from done, declaring, “I got more in the tank.” Now, everyone’s buzzing to see where her new journey with the Spartans will take her.

Fans are excited about Naya’s MSU coming

Is Naya Howard leaving the University of Georgia gymnastics team? That news hit the fans like a ton of bricks! Especially after the amazing 2025 season she just had, where she was carrying the team, leading on vault a whopping seven times, bars five times, beam twice, and in the all-around eight times.

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So, when she dropped the bombshell announcement that she was out and then followed it up with the thrilling reveal, “I’ve been given a second chance! I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be transferring to MSU on a full ride!” Well, the fandom went wild! The support for Naya was immediate and overwhelming. Her Instagram post was flooded with messages of encouragement.

“Bigger and better things are ahead! So proud of you for holding your head high and knowing your worth. Plus, I think you look better in green. 😉💚 Love you!!” one fan gushed. Another cheered, “So so proud of you!! MSU has a new fan. 😍😍😍” The move to Michigan State ignited a wave of excitement, but everyone’s now wondering: what’s this fresh start going to mean for Naya’s already incredible career?

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Her transfer to MSU feels like a perfect fit, especially since the Spartans are in a rebuilding phase after losing some key players in 2025. “I’m so proud of you!!! You control your destiny, no one else. Now I need to load up Spartan gear,” a devoted fan declared, already mentally decked out in green and white. The enthusiasm was palpable: “Can’t wait to see you shine bright! Black & Green Leo making time!”

Even loyal Georgia fans showed their class, with one writing, “Hate to see you go, but cheering you on in this next chapter! 👏.” Another fan perfectly encapsulated the sentiment: “Way to go, Naya!!!! When one door closes, another one opens. God Got You!!!!! Way to go, Spartans!!!!! 💚💚💚💚💚💚💚.” With Naya’s powerful vow, “I got more in the tank,” she’s ready to come in and light up the Spartans’ lineup. The question isn’t if she’ll shine, but how brightly she’ll burn!

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