Asya Branch, Miss Mississippi is the new Miss USA

Crowns and sashes weren’t the only accessories on display Monday as 51 masked hopefuls assembled in Memphis to compete for the title of Miss USA.

The pageant kicked off with some banter between hosts Akbar Gbaja-Biamila and Allie LaForce, who joked that Miss USA has been “dominating the news cycle” this week. “You can’t even turn on the news without hearing about Arizona, Michigan -- all fierce competitors,” LaForce noted.

Following a swimsuit parade, the top 10 were revealed: Mississippi, Illinois, Hawaii, Oklahoma, Alabama, California, Indiana, Idaho, New York and New Jersey.

Then came the evening gown portion, which brought back all 51 contestants for a special walk.

Miss Oklahoma, Mississippi, Indiana, Idaho and Alabama were announced the five finalists, before Miss Mississippi was announced as this year’s winner.

#MissUSA 2020 is....Mississippi!!! pic.twitter.com/zyH7yoTSgZ

— Miss USA (@MissUSA) November 10, 2020