by Penn State wrestling continues its dominance by landing the top-ranked recruiting class for 2025, according to MatScouts.
Head coach Cael Sanderson’s program is the first ever to achieve back-to-back No. 1 recruiting classes since these rankings began in 2020. The incoming group features some of the nation’s best high school wrestlers, promising continued success for the Nittany Lions.
What Happened
Penn State wrestling was named the No. 1 recruiting class for 2025 by MatScouts analyst Willie Saylor.
This marks the second consecutive year that Penn State has secured the top spot in recruiting rankings, highlighting the program’s ongoing appeal and talent acquisition.
The class boasts elite athletes like PJ Duke from New York and Marcus Blaze from Ohio, both considered among the top senior wrestlers nationwide.
Key Details
- Top recruits include:
- PJ Duke (New York) – nationally recognized for scoring proficiency
- Marcus Blaze (Ohio) – undefeated in takedowns during high school
- William Henckel (Connecticut, No. 18 nationally)
- Asher Cunningham (Pennsylvania, No. 22 nationally)
- Nate Desmond (Pennsylvania, No. 39 nationally)
- Dalton Perry (Pennsylvania, No. 54 nationally)
- Marcus Blaze’s unique defensive skills make him virtually untouchable, never surrendering a takedown in high school competition.
- Asher Cunningham, an Ironman finalist and S32 Champion, is expected to strengthen Penn State’s upper weight division depth.
- Nate Desmond and Dalton Perry have both reached major tournament finals, showcasing their competitive readiness.
Reactions or Statements
Willie Saylor of MatScouts praised the class:
“Although their games are quite different, Duke and Blaze are about as college-ready as they get. Duke is one of the most proficient scorers ever recruited, and Blaze is literally un-takedown-able.”
Investigation or What’s Next
Looking ahead to the 2024-2025 wrestling season:
- Marcus Blaze is expected to fill the 141-pound slot on the Penn State lineup.
- Dalton Perry could also compete at 141 pounds.
- PJ Duke will likely redshirt as he waits for opportunities at either 157 or 175 pounds.
- Asher Cunningham is projected to begin behind senior Levi Haines at 174 pounds.
- William Henckel, an upperweight, may redshirt before competing at 184 or 197 pounds.
FAQs
Q1: What makes Penn State’s 2025 recruiting class special?
A1: The class features top-ranked wrestlers with proven high school success, including nationally ranked recruits and athletes with unique skills like Blaze’s untakedown record.
Q2: Who leads the recruiting class for Penn State?
A2: PJ Duke and Marcus Blaze are the headline recruits, both considered among the best senior wrestlers in the country.
Q3: What impact will these recruits have on the team?
A3: They add depth and elite talent to multiple weight classes, helping Penn State maintain dominance in NCAA wrestling.
Q4: Has any other wrestling program had back-to-back No. 1 recruiting classes?
A4: No, Penn State is the first program to achieve this since MatScouts began their rankings in 2020.
Q5: When will these recruits start competing for Penn State?
A5: Some will start immediately in their weight classes, while others like Duke and Henckel may redshirt their first year.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Penn State wrestling’s Class of 2025 is set to continue the program’s legacy of excellence. Ranked No. 1 nationally for the second year in a row, this group of recruits promises to bring high skill, depth, and readiness to the Nittany Lions.
With top talents like PJ Duke and Marcus Blaze, Penn State remains a powerhouse in collegiate wrestling heading into 2024 and beyond.
