This seems to be a point that has some different opinions. What are your thoughts on the importance of using the same athlete in both qualifying and team finals?
I am guessing it might feel risky for a team to put an athlete in team finals without 'testing' her in the qualifications perhaps? To give her the experience on that apparatus, in that arena, in front of a live crowd in quals first? Or more to do with the 'message' that it sends about an athlete? Not sure, trying to understand the mindset and what would be 'bad' if they sat Gabby in quals, but used her in finals.
Personally, I have to admit that I would prefer to see both Aly and Laurie compete AA. This is because both of them have a real shot of being the AA Silver Medalist, as well as this would be a very good battle and may the best athlete win (well, win 2nd to Simone, but still...). However, that said, I understand the mathematical reasons for having Gabby do AA. If Gabby does AA, then USA will still (likely) take Gold (Simone) and Silver (Laurie or Aly, whichever does AA), AND there is an outside shot of Gabby medaling on bars. So an extra potential medal for USA count. So I get it. It still makes me sad as I think Aly and Laurie are both so deserving of an AA shot (more than Gabby, score-wise right now), but I get it.