EARTHSHAKING MOVE: No. 1 2026 Recruit Bo Bassett Flips From Iowa to Penn State in Major Wrestling Shockwave
State College, PA — June 26, 2025
In a move that’s shaking the foundations of college wrestling, Bo Bassett, the No. 1 recruit in the Class of 2026 and a generational talent on the mat, has flipped his commitment from the University of Iowa to Penn State, igniting a recruiting frenzy and sparking massive reaction across the wrestling world.
The 17-year-old phenom from Pennsylvania, known for his unmatched technique, relentless pace, and championship mindset, announced the stunning switch Thursday morning in an emotional video posted on his social media channels. Standing in a Penn State wrestling shirt, Bassett delivered a calm but powerful message: “Iowa helped me grow, but home is where the heart—and the dynasty—is. I’m staying in Pennsylvania. I’m going to Penn State.”
The ripple effect was immediate.
Bassett had been verbally committed to Iowa since early 2024, seen as the next heir to the storied Hawkeye legacy. With his long history of dominating national tournaments—including multiple Fargo titles and a gold medal at the U17 World Championships—he was expected to be the face of Iowa’s next recruiting class. Coaches and fans in Iowa City had already envisioned him continuing the proud tradition built by Dan Gable and carried forward by Tom Brands.
But Bo’s flip to Cael Sanderson’s powerhouse at Penn State marks not just a personal decision—it’s a seismic shift in the balance of collegiate wrestling dominance. The Nittany Lions, already riding high off their 11th NCAA team title in 13 years, just secured the commitment of a once-in-a-decade athlete from right in their backyard.
“Bo Bassett is not just a wrestler,” said one Big Ten coach who asked to remain anonymous. “He’s a program-changer. This is a dagger for Iowa and a crown jewel for Penn State.”
Sources close to the Bassett family say the decision came after multiple visits to State College this spring, where Bo was impressed by the close-knit team culture, coaching philosophy, and opportunity to train alongside Olympic-level athletes in the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club.
In an exclusive interview with Deseret Sports, Bo’s father, Bill Bassett, said: “We have tremendous respect for Iowa. This was not about money or attention. This was about long-term development, values, and Bo’s future both on and off the mat.”
Iowa head coach Tom Brands issued a brief but respectful statement following the news: “We wish Bo and his family the best. We will continue to build champions in Iowa City.”
Meanwhile, Penn State fans erupted in celebration. Within minutes, “Bo Is Home” was trending across wrestling forums and Twitter. Cael Sanderson himself responded on X, posting simply: “Let’s go. #WeAre”
With Bo Bassett now poised to don the blue and white singlet, Penn State’s grip on the collegiate wrestling throne has never looked stronger. And for Bassett, the journey is only just beginning.
“I’ve dreamed of this,” he said. “Now it’s time to go to work.”
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