Quincy Wilson’s Latest Decision Has Track and Field Fans Divided Over NCAA Future: “Don’t Make a Lot of Money”

“I told myself I wanted to become an Olympian. Now the dream has come true.” Quincy Wilson stepped onto the world’s biggest stage as the youngest American track and field athlete to compete in the Summer Games. But even though he had made it, the sprinter earned the tag of an Olympian by joining the U.S. 4x400m relay team during the heats.

However, the wunderkind wasn’t too happy with his performance. In fact, his split of 47.30 was 3 seconds over the U18 world record he set at the U.S. Olympic Trials—44.59 seconds. “I knew it wasn’t just myself, because by myself, we would be in last place,” he stated. But that didn’t stop Team USA from clinching a gold medal in the finals with an Olympic Record of 2:54.43. But now that the season has ended, the 16-year-old is ready to move on to the next phase.

One of Sports Illustrated’s ‘Teen Titans’ has just completed schooling at the Bullis School in Maryland but is now making official collegiate visits for the NCAA season. His first visit was at the Texas A&M University. NBC Sports Director of Social Media, Travis Miller, shared a video of Quincy Wilson on the sidelines of the Texas A&M Aggies vs Missouri Tigers game on September 5. “Quincy Wilson at the Texas A&M football game on a recruiting visit.” The whizz-kid was spotted before the game, looking effortlessly cool in a grey Texas A&M shirt and a stylish pair of black sunglasses.

Quincy Wilson’s future has caused quite a stir among track and field community

The 16-year-old left an indelible mark on the track and field circuit with his stellar performance during the U.S. Trials in the historic Hayward Field. However, even though he placed sixth in the 400m event, he made it through to the 4x400m relay at the French capital. Quincy Wilson started off the blocks, and they qualified third in heat one with 2:59:15 on the clock. But even though he didn’t contest in the finals, the sprinter walked away with a gold from Paris. However, now that he’s looking to contest in the NCAA, fans don’t know how to feel.

One fan stated, “makes sense. pro track players dont make a lot of money. might as well do NIL and get a free education out of it.” While many would expect the Olympian to go pro, it’s easy to see why this fan prefers the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) route. Athletes like Sha’Carri Richardson, Noah Lyles, and Kenny Bednarek have highlighted the financial disparities in professional sports. On the other hand, many collegiate athletes are now reaping the benefits of NIL deals, allowing them to monetize their talents while still pursuing their education. One of the biggest examples would be LSU’s Olivia Dunne. 

Previously, student-athletes were prohibited from making deals to profit from their fame. However, a few NCAA rule changes have now restored NIL rights to them, aiding them in making sponsorship deals ever since. It would be interesting to see if Quincy Wilson decides to follow this path too.

Another fan seemed excited by the prospect of him joining A&M: “400 U! Join the Ags and gain a devoted fanbase for life. Just ask Athing Mu, Bryce Deadmon, Shamier Little, and Fred Kerley 🙂” Texas A&M has produced several NCAA greats, this fan stated. One of them might help sway the 16-year-old entirely too. 

Quincy Hall would probably explore all of his options since he hasn’t made a decision just yet. This is just his first official visit. However, the Olympian has always admired Fred Kerley. So chances are, that if he does see himself at Texas A&M, it is probably because he would follow in the 29-year-old’s footsteps. But some fans don’t think this is a good idea.

A pointed out, “I think he should skip college and go straight pro. No sense in letting the NCAA system run him through the ground.” While several athletes have gone down the NCAA route, Christian Miller decided to forego his eligibility shortly after the Olympic Trials. Another fan agreed, “I think he should just go pro… the college season is going to burn his legs out before he can get to his prime.” The sprinter is just 16 years old and has already contested in the Summer Games. Many fans believe he should keep that momentum going instead. 

One fan added, “Hope he just went for fun, I think he should skip college and just go pro.” While the sprinter has shared several images in his kit, he’s made it clear that he hasn’t made a commitment yet. With more official visits on the horizon, fans will have to wait to see if Quincy Wilson makes a decision. For now, it looks like the 16-year-old is soaking in his Olympic glory, and it’s been thrilling to watch. What do you think this wunderkind should do? Should he take the plunge into the pro world, or should he experience college life first?