In an unprecedented moment that has taken the cheerleading world by storm, the West Virginia University (WVU) cheerleading squad has been crowned the “World’s Best” by ESPN following a breathtaking routine that left both judges and fans speechless. The electrifying performance took place during the 2025 NCA National Cheer Championship and quickly became a viral sensation, captivating billions around the globe.
With precision, power, and passion, the Mountaineers executed a flawless, high-flying routine that not only clinched them the national title but also broke multiple performance records, including highest average difficulty score and most synchronized stunts in a single performance. ESPN, in a rare move, declared the routine as “the most iconic in modern cheerleading history,” praising the squad for redefining the sport with their innovative choreography and unmatched athleticism.
Videos of the performance spread rapidly across social media platforms, amassing billions of views within days. Celebrities, athletes, and sports analysts alike weighed in, applauding the team’s execution and unity. “What the WVU cheer squad did is nothing short of historic,” one ESPN commentator said. “They raised the bar for what’s possible in cheerleading.”
Led by coach Sarah Cartwright, the squad spent months refining the record-breaking routine, which featured never-before-seen pyramid transitions and aerial formations that pushed the limits of gravity. “We knew we had something special,” Cartwright said. “But we never imagined the world would react like this.”
The performance has sparked a renewed global interest in competitive cheerleading, with many calling for expanded recognition of the sport on international stages such as the Olympics.
While other teams put up strong performances, none came close to matching the precision, energy, and creativity delivered by WVU. With this historic win and international acclaim, the Mountaineers have not only claimed a title—they’ve cemented their legacy as cheerleading legends.
As one ESPN headline perfectly put it: “WVU Didn’t Just Win — They Elevated the Game.”