Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ star pitcher, is set to make a return to his alma mater in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, accompanied by his gymnast girlfriend, Livvy Dunne. Together, the power couple will appear as guest pickers on ESPN’s popular “College GameDay” show, where they’ll help predict outcomes ahead of LSU’s high-stakes game against rival Alabama. Skenes and Dunne will join an all-star lineup of ESPN personalities including Rece Davis, Kirk Herbstreit, Lee Corso, Desmond Howard, and Pat McAfee to weigh in on college football predictions.
A Star-Studded Return to LSU
This appearance is a special homecoming for Skenes, who had a significant impact during his time at LSU. After transferring from the U.S. Air Force Academy, he excelled in his lone season with the Tigers, earning several awards and helping lead the team to victory in the 2023 College World Series. Skenes’ standout season culminated with him being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates, a major accomplishment in his budding career.
Dunne’s Role as a Top Collegiate Athlete
Meanwhile, Dunne has made a name for herself as one of the most popular collegiate athletes in the United States. A key member of LSU’s gymnastics team, she helped them secure the 2024 national championship and built a strong fanbase both on campus and across the nation. Her influence extends far beyond the gym, where she has garnered a massive social media following and established herself as a prominent figure in college athletics.
A Year of Shared Success and Public Interest
Over the past year, Skenes and Dunne have captured public attention not only for their athletic achievements but for their shared spotlight as a couple. Skenes’ rookie season in professional baseball was met with wide acclaim, while Dunne charmed fans by doing a playful impersonation of Skenes at the Fanatics Fest in New York City last summer. Their combined charisma and athletic accomplishments have made them a fan-favorite duo.
Setting the Stage for LSU-Alabama Rivalry on ‘College GameDay’
Now, the pair will lend their insights to College GameDay, adding an extra layer of excitement to one of college football’s most anticipated matchups. The LSU-Alabama rivalry is legendary, and having Skenes and Dunne on the GameDay set brings an additional LSU connection to the broadcast. Fans are eager to see the couple reunite with their LSU roots on national television as they support their school.
Dunne expressed her excitement for the appearance, sharing on X (formerly Twitter), “Can’t wait!!! Let’s geaux,” fueling enthusiasm among LSU fans and GameDay viewers.
This memorable appearance allows Skenes and Dunne to celebrate LSU pride on a national stage, marking an iconic return for the couple to the school that launched their journeys. As they join the broadcast team, the couple is set to bring school spirit, fan engagement, and star power to what promises to be an unforgettable College GameDay segment.