March 1, 2021 – March 6, 2021

Lucas Byrd | SO, MWR | Recreation, Sport and Tourism

In this past weekend's Big Ten Championships, Illinois wrestling sophomore Lucas Byrd placed third at 133-pounds, leading all Fighting Illini wrestlers at the tournament. Lucas Byrd went 4-1 in his first Big Ten tournament, capped off with a 7-1 decision over Northwestern's Chris Cannon to take third place at 133-pounds. The sophomore had an impressive weekend, with his only loss coming against Iowa's Austin DeSanto, a 5-4 decision on Saturday night in the 133-pound semifinals.

Byrd's strong showing at the Big Ten Championships has officially qualified him for the NCAA Men's Wrestling Championships this weekend, where he will compete against the top wrestlers in the nation in hopes of earning All-American recognition. Byrd seeded #7 in the 133 lb weight class will face #26 Darren Miller of Bucknell in his first match. Byrd will be competing at the NCAA Championships in St. louis with four other Illini including both Braunagels, Dylan Duncan and Luke Luffman.

The Cincinnati, OH native is currently studying Recreation, Sport and Tourism with plans to be a coach so he can have an impact on future athletes.

2020-21 Scholar Athlete of the Week Winners