Penn State Wrestling: ‘Magic Man’ Secures Dual Triumphs, Recruits Two Top Talents from Nittany Lions Roster
In a significant development for college wrestling, former Penn State standout David “Magic Man” Taylor has orchestrated a strategic move by recruiting two former Nittany Lions to join him at Oklahoma State. Alex Facundo and Gary Steen, both once key contributors to Penn State’s lineup, have announced their transfers to the Cowboys, seeking new opportunities under Taylor’s guidance.
Facundo, a 165-pounder, was a regular starter during the 2022-23 season but faced stiff competition upon his return from an Olympic Redshirt. With Penn State’s depth at 157 and 165 pounds, Facundo’s path to a starting position became increasingly challenging, leading to his decision to transfer .
Steen, who competed at 125 pounds, initially stepped into the starting role following an injury to Robbie Howard. Despite his efforts, Steen’s performance was inconsistent, and with the emergence of talented wrestlers like Braeden Davis and Luke Lilledahl, he found himself without a clear path to a starting position .
Taylor’s influence at Oklahoma State has been evident, as he continues to attract top talent to the program. His recent success in recruiting has positioned the Cowboys as a formidable force in college wrestling, capable of challenging established programs like Penn State .
While Penn State’s wrestling program remains strong, the departure of Facundo and Steen underscores the competitive nature of college wrestling and the shifting dynamics within top programs. As the Nittany Lions look to the future, they will need to adapt to these changes and continue to develop talent to maintain their position at the forefront of collegiate wrestling.
