Green and Parsons Bounce Back at NHK Trophy
Osaka, Japan – Caroline Green and Michael Parsons showcased resilience on the opening day of the NHK Trophy, placing third in the rhythm dance and leading the U.S. figure skating team. This event marks a significant comeback after their recent performance at the 2025 Cup of China, where they had to withdraw due to an injury sustained mid-program.
The duo, five-time U.S. Championships medalists, is now in contention for their third Grand Prix medal, their first since 2023. Consistently performing to a medley including hits like “Groove Is in the Heart” by Dee-lite, Green and Parsons displayed exceptional skill, receiving impressive grades of execution. Notably, they scored above 10 points on their midline step sequence and pattern dance type sequence.
Their rhythm dance scored a total of 75.14 points, placing them firmly in third ahead of fellow training mates from Canton, Michigan, Katarina Wolfkostin and Dimitry Tsarevski, who achieved a new international personal best of 72.12 in fifth place. They dazzled the audience with a performance featuring popular songs from the 90s, securing Level 4 marks on essential elements.
Maia Shibutani and Alex Shibutani, former Olympians, returned to the ice and finished sixth with a score of 71.74. In the pairs category, reigning U.S. champions Alisa Efimova and Misha Mitrofanov performed strongly despite a fall, collecting a personal best of 69.21 points.
Meanwhile, Sarah Everhardt placed sixth in the women’s event, with her short program revealing her talent through a triple Lutz-triple toe loop combination that stole the show. Andrew Torgashev, a top competitor in the men’s event, rounded out the day in eighth place, while Jimmy Ma finished in tenth in his first Grand Prix of the season.
As the NHK Trophy unfolds, tensions rise, and fans are eager to see if Green and Parsons can secure that coveted medal. Their ability to bounce back is a testament to their dedication and artistry in the sport.
