Olivia Dunne was back in Baton Rouge this week to take part in a tribute honoring longtime LSU gymnastics coach D-D Breaux, returning to campus to recognize a figure whose influence still defines the program.
The former LSU gymnast attended the ceremony at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center, where Breaux‘s 43-year tenure as head coach was formally celebrated.
Breaux led LSU gymnastics from 1978 through 2020, building the foundation for one of the most respected programs in collegiate gymnastics.
Dunne, who joined the LSU Tigers after Breaux‘s retirement, shared glimpses of the night on social media.
She posted photos from the event, including an image of herself in a tiger-print dress and another of the LSU stadium paired with a purple heart emoji, a subtle nod to her lasting connection with the university.
A lasting bond between Dunne and LSU
Although Dunne did not compete under Breaux directly, her collegiate career was shaped by the culture Breaux built over decades.
Dunne represented LSU from 2021 through 2025, becoming one of the program’s most recognizable athletes during a period of sustained success.
Her time with the Tigers culminated in 2024, when LSU captured the first national championship in program history.
Dunne played a role in that title run before announcing her retirement from gymnastics the following year, closing a chapter that kept her closely tied to the school even after stepping away from competition.
The tribute event brought together a wide mix of former athletes, alumni, and figures connected to LSU athletics.
Among those in attendance was LSU alumnus and country music performer Timothy Wayne, who performed during the ceremony. Dunne later shared a carousel of photos from campus, including one capturing a brief interaction with Wayne during the celebration.
Dunne‘s visit also drew attention because of her relationship with Paul Skenes, the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner. The two met while both were at LSU in 2023 and have remained a high-profile couple since.
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