College Sports
Virginia Men's Basketball
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – University of Virginia Dean and Markel Families Men’s Head Basketball Coach Ryan Odom announced Tuesday (April 8) the additions of Director of Operations Kelsey Knoche, Director of Analytics Matt Hart, Video Coordinator Billy Bales and Director of Recruiting Ahmad Thomas. Knoche, Hart, Bales and Thomas served in similar roles under Odom at […]


CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – University of Virginia Dean and Markel Families Men’s Head Basketball Coach Ryan Odom announced Tuesday (April 8) the additions of Director of Operations Kelsey Knoche, Director of Analytics Matt Hart, Video Coordinator Billy Bales and Director of Recruiting Ahmad Thomas.
Knoche, Hart, Bales and Thomas served in similar roles under Odom at VCU the past two seasons. The Rams posted a 52-21 record from 2023-25 and played in the 2025 NCAA Tournament. VCU finished 28-7, won the Atlantic-10 Tournament and shared the A-10 regular-season championship in 2024-25. VCU’s Max Shulga earned A-10 Player of the Year honors and Jack Clark was the A-10 Tournament MVP. In 2023-24, the Rams advanced to the NIT quarterfinals and finished with a 24-14 record.
In addition, Odom announced the return of Head Strength and Conditioning Coach Mike Curtis for his 17th season and Associate Athletic Director for Sports Medicine Ethan Saliba for his 43rd season.
Kelsey Knoche
Knoche is in her fifth season overall with Odom. She served two seasons as the director of operations at VCU (2023-25) and two seasons as the director of operations and external relations at Utah State (2021-23).
Knoche was one of 15 women to hold the title of Director of Basketball Operations on a men’s coaching staff in NCAA Division I in 2024-25.
In her role with the Rams, Knoche oversaw all logistics related to the day-to-day operations of the men’s basketball program, including non-conference scheduling, team travel, managing the program’s operating budget and coordinating recruiting visits. The Fairfax, Virginia, native also served as the program’s liaison to the athletic department.
Prior to her time in Logan, Knoche worked as an assistant coordinator with the University of Maryland men’s basketball program from 2015-21. With the Terrapins, Knoche worked closely with the team’s recruiting efforts, including coordinating on-campus visits and organizing all staff recruiting travel. She also arranged basketball specific fundraising efforts, alumni reunions, and assisted with team travel. Prior to her full-time role, Knoche spent four seasons as an undergraduate with the program as a student operations assistant.
Matt Hart
Hart served as the director of analytics on Odom’s staff at VCU from 2023-25 and was a graduate student manager under Odom at Utah State in 2022-23. The Aggies won 26 games and received an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament during that season.
Hart previously served as an assistant coach at Daemen University in the 2021-22 season, where he assisted in recruiting and was responsible for scouting, and leading on-court workouts for guards and perimeter players.
Hart was the director of player development/director of video operations at George Washington from 2018-19. He played professionally in the United States, Canada, Ireland and Serbia from 2017-18 and 2019-21.
Billy Bales
Bales is in sixth season overall with Odom, having served as the director of video at VCU from 2023-25, director of player development at Utah State from 2021-23 and volunteer assistant at UMBC in 2020-21. He also played for Odom at Lenoir-Rhyne in 2015-16.
While Bales was at Utah State, the Aggies earned a 2023 NCAA Tournament berth and made a 2022 NIT appearance. Three Utah State players received All-Mountain West Conference honors during Bales’ tenure, including 2023 first-team selection Steven Ashworth.
Bales assisted Odom at UMBC with daily scheduling and social media content during his one year with the Retrievers from 2020-21,
Prior to his time in Baltimore, Bales spent two seasons (2018-20) at his alma mater, Lenoir-Rhyne University. The Bears received an at-large bid to the school’s seventh NCAA D-II Tournament, advanced to their first South Atlantic Conference Championship game since 2005 and reached as high as No. 17 in the D-II rankings.
Bales was a four-year letterwinner for the Bears and while playing for Odom led the team to an NCAA Division II Regional Final appearance during the 2015-16 season.
Ahmad Thomas
Thomas, who is a native of Danville, Virginia, spent the past two seasons (2023-25) at VCU under Odom as the coordinator of player development.
As the director of recruiting and development at UNC Greensboro in 2022-23, Thomas’ efforts helped the Spartans to a 20-12 mark, including a 14-4 conference record. Thomas was the associate head coach of Team Loaded North Carolina, a premier grassroots basketball program. His primary responsibilities with Team Loaded NC included coaching, recruiting, player development, organization and travel logistics.
From 2015-18, Thomas was a four-year standout for UNC Asheville, where he finished his career as the only player in Big South men’s basketball history with 1,500 points (1,626), 700 rebounds (705), 250 steals (251) and 250 assists (256). Thomas was the two-time Big South Defensive Player of the Year and two-time first team All-Big South performer.
Thomas played three years of professional basketball overseas in Luxembourg, England, Finland, and Canada before returning to North Carolina to begin working with Team Loaded NC.
College Sports
Shedeur Sanders should consider trying to return to college football
The first-round slide is now an all-out free fall for quarterback Shedeur Sanders. With each passing pick, his potential earnings under his rookie deal get smaller and smaller. At some point — and we’re arguably already there — Shedeur should consider his alternatives. One could be, possibly, to return to college football for another season. […]

The first-round slide is now an all-out free fall for quarterback Shedeur Sanders. With each passing pick, his potential earnings under his rookie deal get smaller and smaller.
At some point — and we’re arguably already there — Shedeur should consider his alternatives. One could be, possibly, to return to college football for another season.
Yes, the NCAA’s rules prevent it. He entered the draft. He accepted benefits via the NFL’s invitation to the Scouting Combine.
But we’ve learned one very important thing about college football in recent years. Most, if not all, NCAA rules violate federal antitrust laws. And with players now making millions in NIL money, why shouldn’t a player with remaining eligibility be allowed to return?
No one has tested it. Shedeur could. If it fails, he could then sign a rookie deal and join whichever team eventually drafts him.
At this point, he’d make much more in NIL money than he’ll make in the first year of a rookie deal. (At some point, he’d make more in 2025 as a college quarterback than he would in all four years of his rookie contract.) He also could put together one more year of film, re-enter the draft next year, and see what happens.
Here’s another twist that he should consider. Don’t go back to Colorado. His 2026 draft stock could be enhanced by finding a new team, and by proving that he can play at a high level away from his father/coach, Deion.
It’s an idea. A possibility. A way to make chicken salad. And a path toward making more money this year, with a chance to enter the NFL in a better draft position next year.
College Sports
Adult Learners in Louisiana Find Purpose, Progress and New Pathways | Sponsored: LCTCS
Sponsored Content This article is sponsored by the Louisiana Community and Technical College System. This isn’t just about second chances. It’s about rewriting futures. Across Louisiana, adult learners are stepping into classrooms not with shame or regret—but with purpose, power, and promise. Many are parents determined to build better lives for their children, workers breaking […]

This isn’t just about second chances. It’s about rewriting futures.
Across Louisiana, adult learners are stepping into classrooms not with shame or regret—but with purpose, power, and promise. Many are parents determined to build better lives for their children, workers breaking free from low-wage incomes, and individuals reclaiming dreams once set aside.
Behind each of these stories is the continued movement led by the Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) and its partners. It’s a movement fueled by belief in human potential—one that meets learners where they are and helps them rise.
Kristen Hardnett’s journey is one of many. At 50, she didn’t just earn her high school diploma— through Empower 225, she unlocked a new life. Her story, like thousands more, is proof that when adult education is done right, it doesn’t just change résumés. It changes entire trajectories.
“I was a customer service representative at an insurance agency, which wasn’t a bad job, but I was stuck making $12 an hour,” Hardnett said. “I knew I could do better. And more than that, I wanted to be a better role model for my son. I couldn’t ask him to finish school if I hadn’t done the same. Earning my high school equivalency was the right thing to do. I have no regrets.”
Today, Hardnett is an ambassador for Empower 225 and a vocal advocate for adult education. She speaks at conferences, encourages peers, and is preparing to enroll at Baton Rouge Community College to pursue her dream of becoming a licensed mental health counselor. Along the way, she’s applying for jobs that support children with autism—like her son.
“Two years ago, I wouldn’t be talking about these things,” she said. “But I know there are people out there who’ve fallen by the wayside. If I can help someone else believe in themselves, then that’s what I’m going to do.”
Kristen’s story is one voice in a growing chorus of adult learners who are breaking barriers, discovering their value, and reclaiming their stories—each for their own reason. Some are young adults who left high school too soon. Others are single parents seeking stability or older adults chasing confidence, literacy, or simply the pride of achievement.
“We always start with a conversation about why they are here,” said Erin Landry, Executive Director of Adult Education for LCTCS. “Not everyone has the same goal, and our programs are built to reflect that. Whether someone wants a better job, to help their kids with homework, or to finally read fluently—we’re here to help them get there.”
Adult education services are offered at no cost across all LCTCS institutions and dozens of partner sites statewide—including schools, churches, and community centers.
At River Parishes Community College (RPCC), adult education is more than a program—it’s a community. Chancellor Quintin Taylor says that’s intentional.
From student ID badges to access to campus resources, adult learners are fully integrated into the college environment. But the real game-changer? The opportunity to pursue workforce training at the same time they work toward their high school equivalency.
“Our integrated education and training model allows students to stack credentials and earn industry-based certifications while earning their diploma,” Taylor said. “It motivates them and shows them what’s possible—not just a job, but a career they can be proud of.”
RPCC also provides robust advising, tutoring, and academic support, recognizing that confidence and connection are as important as curriculum.
“People don’t drop out of high school because they aren’t smart,” Taylor said. “Life gets in the way. We’re here to show them that their story doesn’t end there. We’re here to help them write the next chapter.”
April Porterfield has witnessed transformation firsthand. As Executive Director of Volunteer Instructors Teaching Adults (VITA), a Lafayette-based nonprofit and LCTCS partner, she believes that adult education is about more than academics—it’s about rebuilding self-worth.
“Earning a diploma isn’t just a credential,” she said. “It’s proof that they can finish what they started. That they matter. That they’re capable.”
VITA’s one-on-one tutoring model pairs students with volunteers who often share similar backgrounds or career goals. These relationships offer more than instruction; they provide mentorship, accountability, and hope.
“Matching students with mentors from similar fields shows them that their goals are possible,” Porterfield said. “It makes success feel real and reachable.”
Across Louisiana, adult learners are reclaiming their futures—one classroom, one credential, one breakthrough at a time. Whether they’re seeking better jobs, supporting their families, or fulfilling long-held dreams, these students are proving that it’s never too late to learn, grow, and lead.
As Adult Education Advocacy Month shines a spotlight on their progress, the message is clear: with the right support, every learner has the power to change their story—and in doing so, change their community. To learn more about adult education opportunities near you, visit www.lctcs.edu/workready-u.
College Sports
Women’s Lax Gets Past Rochester, Will Host RPI on Tuesday
Next Game: Rensselaer 4/29/2025 | 7:00 PM Apr. 29 (Tue) / 7:00 PM Rensselaer History ROCHESTER, N.Y. – The Union College women’s lacrosse team outscored the University of Rochester by a 6-2 score in the fourth period to pull away for a 16-11 victory over the Yellow Jackets in […]

ROCHESTER, N.Y. – The Union College women’s lacrosse team outscored the University of Rochester by a 6-2 score in the fourth period to pull away for a 16-11 victory over the Yellow Jackets in the regular-season finale on Saturday afternoon at Fauver Stadium.
The win keeps Union (11-3, 7-3 Liberty League) in a three-way tie for second place with Rochester Institute of Technology and Ithaca College in the conference standings heading into the postseason. The Garnet Chargers lose the tiebreaker between the three schools, however, and will be the fourth seed in the upcoming Liberty League Tournament.
Sophomore Maddy Schiller led all players with five goals and added an assist for six points. She was joined at six points by senior Greta Maurer with four goals and two assists, while sophomore Gillian Joseph chipped in three goals and two assists for five points as well for the Garnet Chargers.
Union finished the game with a 43-25 edge in shots, but the visitors had all they could handle against a pesky Rochester (5-12, 2-8 Liberty League) squad that stayed close before the decisive fourth frame. Union took the lead for good on a Maurer tally in the final minute of the third period that put the Garnet Chargers up 10-9, then got two goals from Schiller and one each from Joseph and Maurer to build up a 14-9 advantage with 9:15 remaining. The Yellow Jackets got back within three after a pair of Gracie Giannettino goals, but Maurer and Schiller finished off their huge second halves with one more each to put the game away. The pair scored all nine of their goals in the final 30 minutes and accounted for nine of the team’s 11 second-half tallies.
The teams traded runs over the first 30 minutes, as Union could not put any distance between the squads. A quick three-goal spurt made the score 3-1 in favor of Union 11:46 into the contest, but the Yellow Jackets came back with three in a row to take a 4-3 advantage. Following goals by junior Hannah Compa and first-year Stella Del Papa, the home team rattled off three more to take its largest lead of the game at 7-5 early in the third. Schiller scored twice as part of a 4-1 run to put Union back in front by a 9-8 margin, and Maurer’s tally late in the frame set the stage for the decisive fourth period, which saw Union outshoot Rochester by a 13-5 margin and turn the ball over only once.
Union will host fifth-seeded Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in the first round of the Liberty League Tournament on Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Frank Bailey Field at Bertagna-Class of 1985 Stadium. A full postseason preview will be posted on UnionAthletics.com early next week.
College Sports
US Open Wrestling 2025 Brackets, Live Updates And Results From Day 4
U.S. wrestling’s biggest weekend charges forward today, April 26, as the 2025 USA Wrestling US Open returns to Las Vegas, Nev., for another day of wrestling, spotlighted by the Senior Men’s Freestyle division. America’s finest Freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestlers have been battling fiercely at The Expo at World Market Center, putting on electrifying matches as […]


U.S. wrestling’s biggest weekend charges forward today, April 26, as the 2025 USA Wrestling US Open returns to Las Vegas, Nev., for another day of wrestling, spotlighted by the Senior Men’s Freestyle division.
America’s finest Freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestlers have been battling fiercely at The Expo at World Market Center, putting on electrifying matches as they fight for a ticket to Final X or a coveted spot on the U.S. World Team.
Day 4 is one of the best, kicking off matches in the U20 and U17 Freestyle divisions, where many high school state champions will begin their pursuit of another championship.
Later this evening, we’ll also witness the culmination of the stacked Senior Mens Freestyle division, with finals raging onward beginning at 9 p.m. ET.
With the energy reaching new highs in Vegas, check here for ongoing coverage, results and live updates from the 2025 USA Wrestling US Open.
US Open Wrestling Schedule Saturday, April 26
All times Eastern
Session 7
- 1:00 pm – 3:15 pm: Senior Greco-Roman Group B** – Championship Finals Round 1 (Best 2/3), Consolation & Medal Matches (3rd, 5th, 7th place matches)
- 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Senior Men Freestyle – Consolation, Consolation Semifinals & Medal Matches (3rd, 5th, 7th place matches)
- 1:00 pm – 5:15 pm: U20 Freestyle – Preliminaries & Consolation
- 1:00 pm – 5:15 pm: U17 Freestyle – Preliminaries & Consolation
Session 8
- 7:00 pm – 11:30 pm: U17 Freestyle – Championship Rounds & Consolation
- 7:00 pm – 11:15 pm: U20 Freestyle – Championship Rounds & Consolation
- 9:00 pm – 10:30 pm: Senior Men Freestyle – Championship Finals
- 9:00 pm – 9:45 pm: Senior Greco-Roman Group B** – Championship Finals Round 2 (Best 2/3) & Round 3 (if necessary)
**Senior Greco-Roman – Group B: (82 kg, 87 kg, 97 kg, 130 kg)
Competition Is Winding Down, But Still More Wrestling To Come
The final few matches for this evening are playing out right now, but there’s still more to come tomorrow, April 27, as the 2025 USA Wrestling US Open wraps up competition.
Here’s the schedule:
US Open Wrestling Schedule Sunday, April 27
All times Eastern
Session 9
- 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm: U17 Freestyle – Quarterfinals, Semifinals, Consolation & Consolation Semifinals
- 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm: U20 Freestyle – Quarterfinals, Semifinals, Consolation & Consolation Semifinals
- 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm: UWW Futures Freestyle – Preliminaries to Conclusion (All Matches)
- 1:00 pm – 7:30 pm: U17 Freestyle – Championship Finals Round 1, Round 2 (Best 2/3), Round 3 (if necessary) & Medal Matches (3rd, 5th, 7th place matches)
- 1:00 pm – 7:30 pm: U20 Freestyle – Championship Finals & Medal Matches (3rd, 5th, 7th, place matches)
125-kg Championship – Demetrius Thomas Over Wyatt Hendrickson (TF 14-3 (3:51))
Last matchup of the Senior Men Freestyle finals is up next. It’s Thomas vs. Hendrickson to round out the competition.
Kicking off the last match now.
Thomas gets the passive, but is able to get a push out to get on the board first.
Hendrickson strikes back with a takedown to get two and go up 2-1.
Another takedown for Hendrickson will add two.
Hendrickson gets a takedown then rolls twice for two exposures as time in the first period expires. Hendrickson is up 10-1.
Thomas fights back to open the second period with a takedown.
Hendrickson grabs a takedown and finishes the match with the exposure, defeating Thomas 14-3.
97-kg Championship – Kyle Snyder Over Jonathan Aiello (TF 11-0 (3:19))
Another big matchup is up on the chopping block now.
We’re getting started here.
Aiello gets a passive early.
Snyder gets the push out for one to get on the board first.
He’ll follow up with a takedown to add two, now up 3-0.
Snyder tacks on another takedown for two.
And then another takedown, Snyder is now leading 7-0.
No slowing here, Snyder has his fourth takedown, ahead 9-0 leading into the break.
Right out of the break and Snyder seals this with a final takedown. An 11-0 masterclass win for Snyder.
92-kg Championship – Trent Hidlay Over Aeoden Sinclair (Dec 7-1)
We’re nearing the end of the Senior Mens Freestyle finals with only three matches left. Up next, Hidlay vs. Sinclair.
Clock is ticking.
Hidlay gets the early takedown and exposure to go up four.
Now he gets the push out, Hidlay leads 5-0 early.
Good defense on both sides runs the time to the break, 5-0 Hidlay.
Hidlay gets the push out after some time in the second period to extend to 6-0.
Sinclair gets his own push out to get on the board.
And Hidlay is back with another push out on his end.
Time will expire, and it’s Hidlay’s win this time, 7-1 over Sinclair.
86-kg Championship – Zahid Valencia Over Kyle Dake (Dec 8-4)
Guess what? More wrestling. Dake takes on Valencia next to decide the 86-kg champion.
Hitting the mats now.
Dake gets the passive, no scores yet.
All locked up here with no points across the board, but Dake gets another passive and will go on the shot clock.
Soon after and Valencia has got a takedown, the exposure and secures the clock point. It’s 5-0 Valencia.
Dake gets a push out at the end of the period to get on the board. 5-1 going into the break.
Valnecia gets a push out coming back from the break to extend to 6-1.
We’re trading pushes now. Dake gets another to add one point, 6-2.
Valencia gets a caution to give Dake one and one. It’s now 6-4 Valencia.
Valencia finds some extra energy to get a takedown as time runs out, taking the championship 8-4 over Dake.
79-kg Championship – Evan Wick Over Dean Hamiti Jr. (Dec 9-1)
More weight classes, more wrestling, more championships. Get ready for what’s next.
Match is underway.
Some action but no scores yet.
Wick will get the passive, followed by Hamiti getting a passive soon after.
Another passive given to Wick will put him on the shot clock.
Hamiti gets the point, going into the break up 1-0.
Back from the break and it’s Hamiti’s turn on the shot clock.
Wick gets the point, then gets rolling for a takedown and some exposures. He gets a total of nine points here, now up 9-1.
Time will run out and Wick will get the win 9-1.
74-kg Championship – Mitchell Mesenbrink Over David Carr (TF 16-6 (5:32))
Another massive battle lies ahead soon. Who will take the win?
Let’s get this started.
Carr starts off hot with a takedown and exposer to get four, now up 4-0.
A quick medical break to clean a small cut.
Carr is still rolling, pushing Mesenbrink out for one more. 5-0 Carr, but we’ll get a quick challenge.
A massive reversal here, Mesenbrink wins the challenge, putting it to 4-1 Carr.
Mesenbrink is heating up now, getting himself four on a quick attack on Carr. Mesenbrink now up 5-4.
Hitting break time, Mesenbrink has the lead 5-4.
Mesenbrink hits a massive shot against Carr for four more points to extend the score to 9-4.
Carr gets some action now as he secures a takedown for two, Mesenbrink up 9-6.
Now a takedown for Mesenbrink to match Carr’s, 11-6.
Add two for Mesenbrink for another takedown to put him up 13-6.
A challenge gives Mesenbrink one more point 14-6.
Mesenbrink secures the win with one more takedown, beating Carr 16-6.
Can we talk about how good Mitchell Mesenbrink is? He TECHS David Carr to punch his ticket to FINAL X pic.twitter.com/EuMOQbKTvl
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 27, 2025
60-kg Championship – Yianni Diakomihalis Over James Green (Dec 8-2)
Up next, the 60-kg championships between Green and Diakomihalis.
We’re underway.
Lots of action but no scoring yet, Green gets a passive.
Diakomihalis gets the step out, putting him up 1-0.
Another passive for Green puts him on the shot clock.
Diakomihalis gets the point leading into the break, up 2-0.
Second period starts with a takedown from Green to tie it up 2-2.
Diakomihalis will get four after getting a single leg and head wheel on Green, up 6-2.
Diakomihalis adds two more with another takedown into the last few seconds, securing the 8-2 win.
Yianni Diakomihalis wins the US Open with this CRAZY finish on James Green pic.twitter.com/fiOypxXu6U
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 27, 2025
65-kg Championship – Joseph McKenna Over Jesse Mendez (Dec 3-2)
No slowing down here in Las Vegas, another championship is up.
Match start.
A passive on McKenna, but still scoreless in the first period.
A much more controlled and slow match compared to what we’ve seen so far.
Double passives, and we’ll go into a shot clock
One point for Mendez, but McKenna is able to defend any other points leading into the break.
McKenna gets a takedown to get on the board. It’s now 2-1 McKenna.
Another passive and Mendez will go on the shot clock.
McKenna gets the point, extending his lead to 3-1.
Mendez gets a push out in the last seconds for one point, but leaves just 1 second on the clock.
McKenna will get the win, 3-2.
Joey McKenna gets it done 3-2 over Jesse Mendez to secure his spot in FINAL X where he will take on the winner of the 2025 World Team Trials
pic.twitter.com/hOIMMvKP3z
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 27, 2025
61-kg Championship – Jax Forrest Over Seth Gross (TF 19-8 (5:35))
Another battle coming up next. NCAA Champion Gross vs. No. 2-ranked high school prospect Jax Forrest.
Here we go.
Forrest gives up two early with a pass. 2-0 Gross.
Forrest initiates contact into a takedown, but we’ve got a review to figure out if Gross defended.
We’ve got confirmation from officials, Gross gets four and Forrest two. Score now 6-2 Gross.
Forrest gets an amazing combo of a takedown and exposure. Now tied 6-6.
Another takedown and exposure from Forrest, quickly taking the lead 10-6.
Forrest rips another takedown in the first period to go up two more points.
12-6 Forrest at the break.
Back from the break, a quick 2-2 exchange, making the score 14-8 Forrest.
A quick and nicely placed step out give Forrest one more, 15-8.
Takedown Forrest, he’s one away now, 17-8.
The final takedown comes, and Forrest gets the tech win over Gross, 19-8.
Jax Forrest and Seth Gross lit up the scoreboard in their U.S. Open finals match
but Jax Forrest gets the tech-fall and a spot in FINAL X where he will take on Vito Arujau for a World team spot pic.twitter.com/vFfs4QpnRa
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 27, 2025
57-kg Championship – Luke Lillidahl Over Liam Cronin (TF 10-0 (2:45))
First match, here we go.
We’re locked in early, but it’ll be Lillidahl to get going first with a takedown. Lillidahl up 2-0.
Another takedown, now up 4-0 with 1 minute, 30 seconds to go.
Another takedown for Lillidahl, now 6-0. All Luke so far.
Leg up, Lillidahl sends Cronin into a step out. 7-0
Another step out, 8-0.
And there it is, Lillidahl completes the run with the tech fall, 10-0.
Luke Lilledahl put on an incredible performance in the 2025 U.S. Open finals to punch his ticket to FINAL X
Where he will take on Spencer Lee for a World team spot pic.twitter.com/dCj1xFKpPj
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 27, 2025
Senior Mens Freestyle Finals Start NOW At The US Open
Finals are coming this way right now, so be sure to tune in LIVE on FloWrestling.
As matches progress and champions are crowned, follow along below for updates.
US Open Wrestling Senior Mens Freestyle Finals Champions
57-kg Matchups
- Luke Lilledahl, NLTM over Liam Cronin, NRTM (TF 10-0 (2:45))
61-kg Matchups
- Jax Forrest, CRTM over Seth Gross, MWC (TF 19-8 (5:35))
65-kg Matchups
- Joseph McKenna, CRTM over Jesse Mendez, ORTM (Dec 3-2)
70-kg Matchups
- Yianni Diakomihalis, SCRT over James Green, NRTM (Dec 8-2)
74-kg Matchups
- Mitchell Mesenbrink, NLTM over David Carr, CRTM (TF 16-6 (5:32))
79-kg Matchups
- Evan Wick, SRTM over Dean Hamiti Jr, CRTM (Dec 9-1)
86-kg Matchup
- Zahid Valencia, CRTM over Kyle Dake, NTMW (Dec 8-4)
92-kg Matchup
- Trent Hidlay, WWTM over Aeoden Sinclair, TSWC (Dec 7-1)
97-kg Matchup
- Kyle Snyder, NTMW over Jonathan Aiello, PRTM (TF 11-0 (3:19))
125-kg Matchup
- Wyatt Hendrickson, CRW over Demetrius Thomas, NYAC (TF 14-3 (3:51))
Senior Greco-Roman Group B Finishes Finals, Sets World Team Roster
The 2025 Greco-Roman world team is set! pic.twitter.com/8hkbdCP7DG
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 27, 2025
And We’re Back In Vegas. Session 8 NOW
Time for some more U17 and U20 Freestyle action, plus the Senior Mens Freestyle and Greco-Roman Group B finals later tonight.
Session 7 Wrapping Up, Senior Mens Freestyle Finals Tonight
We’ve reached the final few matches of Session 7 this afternoon, which means it’s just about break time.
The action will resume at 7 p.m. ET with Session 8, with the Senior Mens Freestyle finals kicking off at 9 p.m. ET.
Luke Stanich Is Rising Through The Ranks At The US Open
Luke Stanich has been straight up scrappin’ in the U20 65kg division at the 2025 U.S. Open
pic.twitter.com/brK4Ly2vwl
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 27, 2025
Check Out Some Of These Pics From The Senior Mens Consolations
Quick post of some (unprocessed) Senior Men’s Consis. Great matches! #USOpen25 @USAWrestling @FloWrestling https://t.co/6uL13zexrv pic.twitter.com/mR2su4y9h6
— Tony Rotundo (@Tony_Rotundo) April 26, 2025
Marcus Blaze Rips Through Consolations To Claim Third Place At US Open
Marcus Blaze stormed back for 3rd at the US Open, beating Ben Davino 7-0 in the consolation finals. pic.twitter.com/WC7S7zjN5M
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 26, 2025
Brock Montanona Uses An Ankle Pick In His US Open Start
Brock Mantanona with a clean ankle pick to start up his US Open! pic.twitter.com/pCpKLXPmLT
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 26, 2025
PJ Duke Starts Off Hot At USA Wrestling US Open
PJ Duke with a tech to kick off his US Open! pic.twitter.com/vlzMj9P6mt
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 26, 2025
Jordan Chapman With The Double Scoop And Slam
Rutgers commit Jordan Chapman’s first match at U20s was a 22 second masterpiece
pic.twitter.com/wHUxG9O3YK
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 26, 2025
Bryce Andonian Is A Throwing Machine At The US Open
Check out another classic “all 4 feet off the ground” throw from Bryce Andonian at the US Open! #usopen pic.twitter.com/rkGlkwYsN6
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 26, 2025
Daniel Zepeda Secures A Cradle Win At US Wrestling Open
Daniel “Sauce” Zepeda is literally on a roll so far at the 2025 U.S. Open
pic.twitter.com/LKoWPHMCpd
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 26, 2025
Check Out Bo Bassett’s Match Earlier Today At The US Open
U20 65kg is so TOUGH that Bo Bassett almost got taken down in his first match
Bassett quickly turns the tables and secures the fall at the 2025 U.S. Open pic.twitter.com/f1wc7P87Tm
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 26, 2025
Follow The Senior Greco-Roman Group B Finals Happening Today
Be sure to check out the finals for the second group of the Senior Greco-Roman division, going on now!
Group B includes the 82-kg, 87-kg, 97-kg and 130-kg weight classes.
The finals winners will secure a spot on the U.S. Senior World Team, meaning the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Senior Greco-Roman World Team Trials Group B – Round 1 Results
pic.twitter.com/wskqn7y7el
— USA Wrestling (@USAWrestling) April 26, 2025
US Open Wrestling U20 Freestyle Day 1: Get To Know The Wrestlers
With one of the most stacked and deep divisions of competition getting a start today, be sure to take a look at FloWrestling’s U20 Freestyle preview and predictions.
There are dozens and dozens of top high school wrestling recruits ready to take on the brackets at the US Open, so be sure to familiarize yourself with who might take the crown at each weight class.
No. 4-Ranked Bo Bassett Wins First US Open Match With Sub-Minute Fall
No worries for Bassett here at the Open in his first match on the mats, able to secure a fall against Thomas Thongseng in 57 seconds.
Be sure to follow Bassett’s journey at the 2025 USA Wrestling US Open here.
Bo Bassett Up Next At US Open Wrestling Tournament
Another high school wrestling phenom is starting his journey at the US Open, as Bo Bassett, FloWrestling’s No. 4-ranked high school wrestler in the nation, hits the mats.
Bassett is a multiple-time PIAA State Champion, and has created a large following on social media through his hard work, dedication and eccentric personality.
Make sure to catch the future Iowa Hawkeye’s match LIVE on Mat 12.
U20 freestyle today
@USAWrestling pic.twitter.com/u1Of6Ltr18
— Ross Bartachek (@rossbchek) April 26, 2025
Time To Wrestle! The US Open Is Back!
It’s time to watch some U17 and U20 Freestyle action get underway for the first time this week!
Also on the block will be the second group of the Senior Greco-Roman division, as well as some Senior Mens Freestyle consolations.
US Open Wrestling Action Kicks Off Soon At 1 P.M. ET!
Just a handful of minutes before wrestling action opens the day in Las Vegas. Be sure to keep out an eye here for the best highlights and results from today’s events.
Tune in to FloWrestling’s live coverage of the US Open here.
The US Open is bringing more HEAT this Saturday, including the Senior Men’s Freestyle Finals at 9:00 PM Eastern Time! pic.twitter.com/q0pUYhaUgv
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) April 26, 2025
US Open Wrestling Results By Age Group
Want to see the full results of each match in different age groups? Check out these FloWrestling articles:
US Open Wrestling Results, Champions By Bracket
Check out the results and Champions from the 2025 US Open as they come in on USA Bracketing here. For a specific weight class, check out the following list:
US Open Wrestling Freestyle Results & Champions
Senior Men Freestyle Results
U20 Freestyle Results
U17 Freestyle Results
U15 Freestyle Results & Champions
Senior Women Freestyle Results & Champions
High School Girls Showcase Freestyle Results & Champions
Masters A Freestyle Results & Champions
Masters B Freestyle Results & Champions
Masters C Freestyle Results & Champions
Masters D Freestyle Results & Champions
Masters E Freestyle Results & Champions
Masters F Freestyle Results & Champions
US Open Wrestling Greco-Roman Results & Champions
Senior Greco-Roman WTT Results & Champions
U20 Greco-Roman Results & Champions
U17 Greco-Roman Results & Champions
U15 Greco-Roman Results & Champions
UWW Futures Greco-Roman Results & Champions
Masters A Greco-Roman Results & Champions
Masters B Greco-Roman Results & Champions
Masters C Greco-Roman Results & Champions
Masters D Greco-Roman Results & Champions
Masters E Greco-Roman Results & Champions
Masters F Greco-Roman Results & Champions
Check out FloWrestling’s fan guides for College and High School athletes at the 2025 USA Wrestling US Open:
Bracket information for the 2025 US Open will be available during the event on USA Bracketing here.
Video footage from all events on FloWrestling will be archived and stored in a video library for FloWrestling subscribers to watch for the duration of their subscription.
College Sports
Bryan Danielson says "enough is enough" when commenting on the status of his in
Bryan Danielson has not appeared on AEW television since he lost the AEW world title to Jon Moxley at the 2024 WrestleDream PPV event. While speaking to Jamal Niaz, Bryan commented on the status of his in-ring wrestling career… “My neck is wrecked. So, it’s not no chance, but but it’s risk versus reward at […]


Bryan Danielson has not appeared on AEW television since he lost the AEW world title to Jon Moxley at the 2024 WrestleDream PPV event. While speaking to Jamal Niaz, Bryan commented on the status of his in-ring wrestling career…
“My neck is wrecked. So, it’s not no chance, but but it’s risk versus reward at this point, right? So I want to be able to live comfortably with my wife and kids. One of the things our society has a real problem with is realizing when enough is enough, and I’m very satisfied with my career, and I think enough is enough.” (quote courtesy of Corey Brennan)
As previously noted, AEW President Tony Khan confirmed that Bryan is still working for the company in a behind-the-scenes role.
College Sports
NFL Draft Day 3 sleepers
The Athletic has live coverage of Rounds 4-7 of the 2025 NFL Draft. Read more of The Athletic’s coverage from the 2025 NFL Draft: Best Players Available | Rounds 2 & 3 Grades | Day 2 Winners & Losers The NFL Draft represents a three-day bonding moment between professional and collegiate football that draws in […]


The Athletic has live coverage of Rounds 4-7 of the 2025 NFL Draft. Read more of The Athletic’s coverage from the 2025 NFL Draft: Best Players Available | Rounds 2 & 3 Grades | Day 2 Winners & Losers
The NFL Draft represents a three-day bonding moment between professional and collegiate football that draws in diehard fans of both levels. It’s the talent acquisition that entices NFL observers, and validation for those who follow college football.
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But there are differences that can leave college fans perplexed, like when productive and highly decorated players tumble down the draft board. That’s been the case for the 10 prospects below (Shedeur Sanders not included), who will enter the draft’s third and final day still waiting to hear their names called.
What are those players NFL outlooks’ — and why are they falling?
Quinn Ewers, QB, Texas
Ewers (6-foot-2 1/8, 214 pounds) led Texas to the College Football Playoff semifinals in each of the last two seasons (first as a member of the Big 12, then of the SEC). In his Longhorns career, Ewers threw for a combined 9,128 yards, 68 touchdowns, 24 interceptions and completed 64.9 percent of his attempts.
His quick release, toughness and competitiveness are among his top attributes. After a short stop at Ohio State, Ewers transferred to his home state and became a three-year starter for the Longhorns. He was beloved as a teammate and carries himself with a contagious swagger.
Why is he still available? Ewers really needs to cut down on his turnovers. He fumbled 10 times in 2024 and 20 times combined over his three seasons as Texas’ starter.
Donovan Edwards, RB, Michigan
Had teams evaluated Edwards solely on his big-game moments, he would have been selected in the first round. Edwards rushed for 104 yards and two touchdowns in Michigan’s College Football Playoff championship win over Washington two seasons ago. In 2022, he ran for 216 yards and two touchdowns to help the Wolverines beat Ohio State, then followed up with 185 yards against Purdue to claim Big Ten Championship Game MVP honors.
Edwards was also one of three athletes to grace the cover of EA Sports’ College Football 25 video game.
Why is he still available? Edwards’ inconsistency coupled with this draft’s deep pool of running backs pushed down his value. But given his speed (4.44-second 40 time) and propensity for rising to meet the moment, he should get a chance to become a tandem running back — like he was at Michigan.
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Tez Johnson, WR, Oregon
After starting his career at Troy, Johnson sizzled in two years at Oregon (169 catches for 2,080 yards and 20 touchdowns). He was named Big Ten Championship Game MVP last December after catching 11 passes for 181 yards and a touchdown against Penn State.
Johnson makes tough catches in traffic that belie his narrow frame (5-9 7/8, 154). He is an elite punt returner, too, having averaged 8.9 yards per return in his career. He totaled 519 punt return yards, including an 85-yard touchdown.
Why is he still available? His small frame undoubtedly brings questions about durability. In addition, he ran a 4.51-second 40-yard dash at the combine, which was a bit slower than expected.
CJ Dippre, TE, Alabama
Over four seasons, two of which came at Alabama, Dippre (6-4 7/8, 256) started 37 games and played in 52. He caught 65 passes for 782 yards and three scores and proved to a quality blocker. He’s also banked extensive special teams experience and bench pressed 225 pounds 32 times at the combine, the fifth-most reps by a tight end since 2000.
Why is he still available? Dippre didn’t catch a touchdown pass or make a red-zone reception in those two seasons at Alabama, although his blocking ability and time spent on special teams should help him make a roster.
Cooper Mays, C, Tennessee
Mays (6-2 3/8, 305) was a first-team All-American and Rimington Trophy finalist last season. He started 45 consecutive games and played in 53 in all for the Volunteers, all at center. Last season, he played a team-high 887 offensive snaps, according to PFF, and allowed just one sack. He did not surrender a quarterback hit throughout the entire 2024 campaign and gave up just one (but no sacks) in 2023.
Why is he still available? With less-than-ideal length, Mays doesn’t measure up to what scouts prefer of offensive linemen. But his experience against SEC defenses suggests he’s more than capable of overcoming his limitations once he finds an NFL home.
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Willie Lampkin, C, North Carolina
Lampkin (5-10 3/4, 279) started 61 games over five seasons, the last two coming at North Carolina. He was a first-team All-ACC guard in 2024 and spread his career starts across left guard (27), right guard (20) and center (14). His ability to get into defenders and drive them with leverage is an asset, as is his mean streak.
As a high school senior, Lampkin won the Florida state heavyweight wrestling championship with a 47-0 record.
Why is he still available? Lampkin’s dimensions make just about every evaluator doubt that he can be successful handling massive interior defenders. He’s a center-only prospect, despite only starting at that position during the 2022 season for Coastal Carolina.
Antwaun Powell-Ryland, edge, Virginia Tech
Powell-Ryland (6-2 5/8, 258) finished third nationally last season with 16 sacks and second in sack yardage (102), earning second-team All-American honors. After transferring from Florida, Powell-Ryland became a lethal pass rusher at Virginia Tech, producing 28.5 sacks, 39.5 tackles for loss and nine forced fumbles over three seasons.
Why is he still available? Powell-Ryland is a positional tweener as a pass rusher — history shows those players often have success against college competition but lack a physical trait to win matchups consistently. Powell-Ryland’s arm length will limit him against elite tackles, although his production should help him find a home.
Howard Cross III, DT, Notre Dame
One of the nation’s most productive interior defenders while at Notre Dame, Cross (6-1 3/8, 285) started 35 games for the Irish and twice was named a second-team All-American. He finished his career with 169 tackles (19.5 for loss) and 11 sacks with four forced fumbles. He has a top-shelf work ethic, and his relentless pursuit is something to behold.
Cross, the son of former New York Giants tight end Howard Cross, earned a master’s degree at Notre Dame after returning for a sixth season.
Why is he still available? Howard Cross III doesn’t possess the prototypical body for an NFL defensive tackle, with shorter arms than desired. But his all-out effort and intangibles not only should get him on a roster but will help him contribute right away.
Jay Higgins, LB, Iowa
Higgins (6-0, 224) was overlooked as a high school recruit, and he’s in a similar situation now. Despite incredible production the last two seasons as a first-team All-American (unanimous in 2024), Higgins’ physical limitations overshadow his resume. In 2023, Higgins tied a school record with 171 tackles, for a team that led the country in yards per play allowed. Last fall, he notched another 124 tackles plus four interceptions, two forced fumbles and nine passes defensed.
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Why is he still available? Higgins doesn’t look the part when it comes to the height-weight-speed categories. He also didn’t test well at the combine (4.82 40). But he always makes plays, and that won’t stop in the NFL.
Jason Marshall Jr., CB, Florida
Blessed with the perfect frame to play cornerback, Marshall (6-0 3/8, 195) was a five-star recruit in 2021 and barely left the field at Florida. He started 39 games over four seasons, including every game in which he appeared the last three years. He finished with 27 career passes defensed and played man-to-man coverage against many of the nation’s most talented receivers.
Why is he still available? Marshall didn’t intercept a pass but allowed seven touchdowns over the past two seasons. He also missed his final six college games with a torn labrum. But given his natural gifts and experience, Marshall should compete for snaps once he lands on a roster.
(Top photo of Quinn Ewers: Todd Kirkland / Getty Images)
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