Bishop McCort Catholic junior standout wrestler Bo Bassett is poised to make one of the most anticipated decisions of his athletic career on Tuesday night. With a perfect high school record of 109-0 and recognized as one of the country’s top wrestling prospects, Bassett's choice of where to continue his wrestling career has captured the attention of fans and scouts alike.
After competing in Tuesday's PIAA Class 2A first-round match inside the Bradley Center, Bassett will announce his commitment from among four finalists: Penn State, Iowa, Oklahoma State, and Virginia Tech. Each program has been heavily involved in Bassett's recruitment, but he stated, "Those are the four I could see myself at the most, and that's what it came down to." This honesty gives insight not only to his commitment choice but to the lengthy and complex nature of the recruiting process, which he has navigated for years.
Bassett's undefeated streak during high school wrestling has included 69 technical falls and 28 pins. His current season stands at 35-0, showcasing dominant performances against some of the toughest competitors across the nation. His reputation only grew after securing his third Ironman title at 144 pounds, where he achieved tech falls over six opponents.
Reflecting on his experience, Bassett shared with FloWrestling, "I think first of all, the recruiting process has been incredible. I’ve loved every second of it. It's been more challenging than I thought it would ever be, but it was fun. It was something I’ve worked for my whole life." It's clear this process has been more than just choosing schools—it's been about personal growth and focus on his wrestling career.
The attention surrounding Bassett is reminiscent of previous standout recruits, yet he has embraced the spotlight. He actively participated in official visits to each of his top contenders, including Michigan, Ohio State, and Rutgers before narrowing down his favorites. His visits were carefully scheduled across several months, demonstrating his strategic and serious approach to recruitment.
Regarding the influence of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals on his decision, Bassett remarked, "Obviously, NIL is a piece of it. But I’m more focused on the wrestling." This statement highlights his dedication to the sport and commitment to pursuing excellence without getting sidetracked by potential financial gains.
Bassett's commitment announcement is set for late Tuesday evening after his team, Bishop McCort, competes against the winner of the matchup between Corry and McGuffey, which starts at 5 p.m. The timing of the announcement adds another layer of excitement, as it will be streamed live for fans and sports enthusiasts eager to see where Bassett will take his talents. Speculations and predictions abound, with many expecting him to choose the Nittany Lions, particularly following their strong performance and recent recruiting success.
Coach Cael Sanderson and the Penn State wrestling program have made significant strides to attract top-tier talent, echoed by the enthusiasm from fans following Bassett’s recruitment throughout the season. The recent engagements with Penn State, including matches against Iowa and Rutgers, have only fueled speculation about Bassett’s commitment.
For now, anticipation is mounting. With the potential to become one of the program's centerpiece recruits, Bassett's choice will not only impact his own wrestling career but may also influence the competitive dynamics within college wrestling. Will he bolster Penn State's already prestigious program? Or will he opt for Iowa's formidable reputation or the legacy centered around Oklahoma State and Virginia Tech? Fans will soon have their answer.
Regardless of the decision, Bassett’s commitment will signify not just his next steps—it's also indicative of his hard work and relentless pursuit of excellence within the sport he loves. He’s not just wrestling; he’s making history, perhaps setting records, and motivating countless young wrestlers who aspire to follow similar paths.
After his announcement, all eyes will be on Bassett as he transitions from high school wrestling to the collegiate level, where wrestling takes on even greater significance. His career is just beginning, and the world of wrestling eagerly awaits what this prodigy will achieve next.