Bo Bassett’s high school wrestling career has been nothing short of remarkable. With an immaculate record of 109-0, Bo has already cemented himself as one of the nation’s top formidable wrestlers. As his senior year at Bishop McCort High School nears its end, all eyes are on Bo’s next decision.

A decision that will shape his future – choosing a college program. While he stands on the brink of what is supposedly a life-changing decision for him, the pressure on his shoulders is at its peak. Although a whopping 80 colleges showed their keenness to sign him for the class of 2026, he has shortlisted and cut down the list to just 4! However, amid this recruitment process, one thing that stood out for Bo was the impact of NIL – Name, Image, and Likeness. Bassett has found himself surrounded by numerous lucrative NIL deals.

However, despite getting several offers, Bo is focused on what truly matters – his wrestling career. “I can tell you this, I’ve been hearing a ton of different things at school, and practice at home; it’s kind of crazy, it’s laughable to be honest,” Bassett said. “But I can tell you that, obviously, NIL is a piece of it. But I’m more focused on the wrestling, right? I want to achieve all my goals and do this and that, but I can tell you that all the offers have been very comparable.” Bo added, emphasizing his wrestling career over the figures. However, his candid take on the NIL was in contrast to the NIL deals. “On the other case though, I do wish it was true. Of course, I’m not like a quarterback. As much as I want wrestling to be like football and valued like football, we got a lot of work to do.” Bo drew the disparity between mainstream sports like football and wrestling when it comes to NIL deals.

Wrestling, despite being a sport with a traditional background and a rich history, is behind football in terms of financial backing. The gap between the two sports has sparked criticism on how wrestlers like Bo aren’t receiving NIL opportunities at the same level as a football player of the same age. However, instead of being disappointed, Bo remained optimistic and admitted that wrestling has a long way to go. To achieve the level of commercial recognition, wrestling has a long road ahead.

Bo’s take on the NIL issue in wrestling is a wake-up call for ‘balance’. A balance that will allow every sport to have its own share of growth and recognition. In the end, Bo’s approach serves as a reminder for the wrestling community. But for now, all eyes would be on his final decision, knowing the fact that, whatever the figure, Bo’s heart is connected with the mat.

Who will land Bo Bassett?

Now, since the pursuit race to land Bo Bassett is down to four programs: Penn State, Iowa, Oklahoma State, and Virginia Tech. “I’ve seen all the places I need to see, took my seven visits, and for me, it’s now time,” Bassett said. “When you know, you know, and I’ve spent a whole heck of a lot of time in prayer. It’s been a great process and I’m excited to almost end it.”  Bo is all set to end the recruitment process and he has made it decision. So who could it be?

The Penn State?  With Cael Sanderson at the helm, Penn State has been the top destination for college wrestling. Offering a combination of tradition and coaching excellence, Bo would be provided an environment to reach his full potential. The next is Iowa. Known for its competitive environment, Iowa stands as one of the most prestigious wrestling programs in the country. Their unique balance of academics and athletics ensures that their athletes are well-prepared for life beyond wrestling.

Oklahoma State, a wrestling program that stands as one of the most respected and successful programs in the nation. With 34 NCAA team championships, the Cowboys are a powerhouse in college wrestling, and this tradition of success is a major draw for top recruits like Bo Bassett. With their proven ability, they offer a pathway for athletes to unlock their true potential. The last is Virginia Tech. Although a recently established has cemented itself as one of the most competitive in the nation. What sets them apart is their rising significance, with recent achievements and strong recruitment, they are strongly positioning themselves as a favorable destination.

In the end, the ball is in Bo’s court with every program offering that could fit right for him. However, the question still remains: Who will land Bo Bassett?