In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Yonger Bastida claimed his second Big 12 heavyweight title on Saturday during the championship session of the Big 12 Championships held in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Battling against No. 2 seed Konner Doucet from Oklahoma State, Bastida showcased his prowess on the mat, ultimately winning the match 4-1.
Bastida, a senior wrestler, expressed his satisfaction after the victory, stating, “Man, feels good, man. You know, I came here with that mentality, trying to get my second title. And I did, man, feels good.” Both competitors entered the match with a fierce determination, and the first period saw neither athlete yielding to the other’s advances.
Decisive Moments and Future Aspirations
As the match progressed into the second period, Bastida found an opening and executed a critical takedown, which turned out to be the pivotal moment of the contest. This decisive score allowed him to maintain control and secure the victory, marking a significant achievement in his wrestling career.
Reflecting on his accomplishment, Bastida remarked, “I mean, you know, just another title, man. And you know, I already won it, so I know what it feels like … so now I just move forward to another thing.” That “thing” he referenced is the upcoming NCAA Championships, scheduled from March 19-21. This event represents the one accolade still missing from his extensive trophy collection.
Kevin Dresser, head coach of Iowa State, commented on Bastida’s ambition, saying, “I’m sure Yonger would take that big wall chart and light it on fire right now if he could trade it in for one in two weeks.” This statement underscores the intense dedication and focus that Bastida is bringing into his final collegiate season.
Preparing for the Nationals
This will be Bastida’s fourth appearance at the NCAA Championships, a journey that has seen him evolve significantly as a competitor. He acknowledges that the challenges he has faced over the past two years have contributed to his mental fortitude, stating, “I just got mentally tougher. You know, just everything, anything that life has thrown me in the next two weeks or so, I’m ready for it. I’ve been through the worst, so I think that’s a pleasure.”
As he prepares for this critical championship, Bastida is channeling his hunger and desire for victory. “Hungry, man, that’s the word,” he said. “I’m hungry. I’m looking forward to taking one match at a time and hopefully I can win it.” With the NCAA Championships on the horizon, all eyes will be on Bastida as he aims to secure his place among the elite in collegiate wrestling.
