Penn State Wrestling Lands In-State Talent James Whitbred for 2027 Class

The Penn State Nittany Lions wrestling program has secured another future star. State College Area High School junior James Whitbred announced his verbal commitment late Wednesday. He will join head coach Cael Sanderson’s squad for the 2027 season.

This addition strengthens an already impressive recruiting class. Whitbred becomes the third member of Penn State’s Class of 2027. He joins fellow Pennsylvania wrestler Landon Sidun and New York standout Gavin Mangano.

Local Standout Strengthens Nittany Lions’ Future Roster

Whitbred expressed his excitement about the decision. He stated that Penn State provides the best opportunity for his growth. He thanked his coaches, family, and friends for their support throughout the process.

According to national rankings, Whitbred is a significant get. He is ranked No. 118 on MatScout’s Class of 2027 big board. FloWrestling also lists him at No. 98 in its latest rankings for the class. The recruit also considered Indiana before choosing to stay local.

Whitbred’s Proven Track Record on the Mat

His high school record demonstrates consistent performance. According to PA-Wrestling.com, Whitbred holds a 41-18 record over his first two seasons. He wrestled at 133 pounds as a freshman before moving up to 152 pounds for his sophomore year.

That move paid major dividends last season. He finished first at districts and second at regionals. His performance earned him a sixth-place finish at the PIAA state championships in Hershey.

He recently competed at the prestigious Super 32 tournament. Wrestling at 157 pounds, he posted a 4-2 record. This experience against top national competition will be invaluable for his development.

His exact college weight class is still to be determined. He projects to compete in the middle to lower upper weights. His versatility adds valuable depth to the Nittany Lions’ future lineup.

Penn State wrestling continues to build for the future with this key in-state commitment. The addition of James Whitbred ensures the program’s pipeline of local talent remains strong. Sanderson’s recruiting success shows no signs of slowing down.

Info at your fingertips

What weight class does James Whitbred wrestle?

He wrestled at 152 pounds during his sophomore high school season. He most recently competed at 157 pounds at the Super 32 tournament.

Who else is in Penn State’s 2027 recruiting class?

Whitbred joins Landon Sidun from Pennsylvania and Gavin Mangano from New York. The class is shaping up to be another strong one for Cael Sanderson.

Where is James Whitbred from?

He is a local talent from State College, Pennsylvania. He attends State College Area High School.

How did Whitbred perform at states last year?

He finished in sixth place at the PIAA state championships. This followed a second-place finish at regionals.

Why is this commitment significant for Penn State?

It secures a highly-ranked, local prospect. Keeping top in-state talent home is a key part of the program’s sustained success.

Trusted Sources

MatScouts, FloWrestling, PA-Wrestling.com