Bo Bassett Hints at NCAA College Decision Following Hawkeyes Controversy

For aspiring athletes, securing a spot in a top program is often the ultimate dream. With the recent news of Bo Bassett revisiting his commitment status, wrestling fans and analysts alike are buzzing with speculation about his next move. After de-committing from Iowa, where will the talented Pennsylvania native finally land in his NCAA journey?

On Wednesday night, Bassett made headlines once again at the 2025 U.S. Marine Corps Junior Nationals, clinching gold in the 144lb weight class. His victory not only highlights his individual prowess but also significantly contributed to Pennsylvania’s triumph in the team category. This remarkable win may just serve as the catalyst for Bassett’s decision-making process moving forward.

Following the competition, Bassett shared an Instagram story expressing his excitement about helping his home state secure 221 points at the Marine Corps Juniors. His post featured an image celebrating his teammates and underlined the combined 488 points garnered by both junior and U16 wrestlers from Pennsylvania. This victory might not only boost Bassett’s growing legacy but also offer motivation as he weighs his options.

Yet, one can’t overlook the implications of such a win, especially in light of Pennsylvania’s storied wrestling tradition. Known for producing exceptional talent, this state has long been at the forefront of the wrestling scene in the U.S., and Bassett’s accomplishment serves to underscore that status.

At the collegiate level, the Penn State Nittany Lions have established themselves as a powerhouse in NCAA Division 1 wrestling, often viewed as the gold standard. Despite occasional controversies, their recent track record is impressive, with Cael Sanderson leading his squad to a fourth consecutive national title in April 2025—marking their astonishing twelfth NCAA championship in just fourteen seasons. It’s easy to see why fans would be excited at the prospect of Bassett joining such a prestigious program, especially since Penn State featured in his final four schools before his commitment to Iowa.

Just a day after Bassett parted ways with Iowa, wrestling insider Christian Pyles reported that Penn State was once again on his radar. This quick turnaround raises eyebrows and fuels speculation about potential future commitments.

An Array of Options for Bo Bassett

Prior to his initial commitment, Bassett toured various colleges across the nation, including Iowa and Penn State. He also explored Oklahoma State University, which is currently under the guidance of former Olympic champion David Taylor. Intrigued by Taylor’s vision, Bassett expressed enthusiasm about possibly working under such a well-respected mentor. Taylor’s strategy aims to revive Oklahoma State’s past glories, a goal that aligns with Bassett’s own aspirations as he looks to excel at the collegiate level.

Insiders have also highlighted Nebraska as another potential landing spot, although some skepticism surrounds that option. Former Cornhuskers wrestler Ridge Lovett has voiced concerns about Nebraska’s ability to match the lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals offered by programs like Iowa, Penn State, and Oklahoma State. Earlier reports suggested that Bassett was in line for a seven-figure yearly deal at Iowa, raising the stakes for other institutions vying for his commitment.

Ultimately, the decision-making process weighs heavily on Bassett’s shoulders. With top-tier options on the table, including powerhouse programs and the resources they offer, the wrestling community eagerly awaits his next steps. Where do you think Bo Bassett will end up? Share your thoughts on his future in NCAA wrestling below!