by PJ Duke, a top wrestling recruit for Penn State’s 2025 class, stunned the wrestling world at the USA Wrestling Senior World Team Trials Challenge Tournament in Louisville, Kentucky.
The high school standout defeated two reigning NCAA champions to earn a spot in the 70 kg finals, signaling he may become an immediate force in Penn State’s lineup next season.
What Happened
PJ Duke, a four-time New York high school state champion, delivered a breakout performance at the 2025 Senior World Team Trials.
Despite being just a high school senior, Duke overcame two top-tier collegiate wrestlers to advance to Saturday’s finals at 70 kg freestyle.
He now faces Bryce Andonian, a three-time All-American from Virginia Tech, for a chance to move on to Final X.
Key Details
Duke’s Friday performance included victories over:
- Antrell Taylor (Nebraska), 2024 NCAA Champion at 157 lbs
- Ridge Lovett (Nebraska), 2024 NCAA Champion at 149 lbs
In the quarterfinals, Duke executed a dramatic four-point move in the final minute to beat Taylor.
In the semifinals, Duke led 3-1 against Lovett before a disputed takedown call was overturned after a challenge from Nittany Lion Wrestling Club coach Nick Lee. Duke held on for a 3-2 victory.
The final against Andonian takes place Saturday afternoon. A win would send Duke to Final X in Newark, where he would face Yianni Diakomihalis in a best-of-three series for a spot on Team USA.
Reactions or Statements
Nick Lee’s successful challenge against Lovett’s late takedown was pivotal in securing Duke’s semifinal win.
The Penn State community is abuzz with anticipation as Duke’s performance suggests he could make an immediate impact as a freshman.
Other Nittany Lions in the Finals
Duke is among four Penn State-affiliated wrestlers competing in finals:
| Wrestler | Weight Class | Final Opponent |
|---|---|---|
| PJ Duke | 70 kg | Bryce Andonian |
| Carter Starocci | 86 kg | Kyle Dake |
| Levi Haines | 79 kg | Dean Hamiti |
| Josh Barr | 92 kg | Aeoden Sinclair |
Carter Starocci, a five-time NCAA champion, will face his own NLWC teammate Kyle Dake, a two-time Olympic medalist and four-time world champion.
What’s Next
The winners of Saturday’s finals advance to Final X, a major qualifier for the 2025 World Wrestling Championships in Croatia.
Penn State’s Luke Lilledahl and Mitchell Mesenbrink have already clinched their spots at Final X.
If Duke defeats Andonian, he will face a best-of-three series against Yianni Diakomihalis, a top U.S. freestyle wrestler, for a spot on Team USA.
FAQs
Who is PJ Duke?
PJ Duke is a four-time New York state champion and a top recruit committed to Penn State for the 2025 wrestling season.
What tournament is this?
This is the USA Wrestling Senior World Team Trials Challenge Tournament held in Louisville, Kentucky.
What does the winner earn?
Winners advance to Final X, which determines the USA team for the 2025 World Championships in Croatia.
Who else from Penn State is competing?
Carter Starocci, Levi Haines, Josh Barr, Luke Lilledahl, and Mitchell Mesenbrink are also representing Penn State.
Could PJ Duke wrestle for Penn State as a freshman?
Based on his performance, he is likely to be a strong contender for the starting lineup next season.
Final Takeaway
PJ Duke’s dominant performance against two NCAA champions at the Senior World Team Trials proves he’s ready to compete at the highest levels of collegiate and international wrestling.
His rapid ascent adds excitement to Penn State’s already elite wrestling program as it builds toward the 2025 season and beyond.
