Penn State's Levi Haines Seeks Second NCAA Title in Final Tournament

The senior wrestler aims to become a two-time national champion at different weight classes.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 7:04pm

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Levi Haines, a senior wrestler at Penn State University, is competing in his final NCAA Championships. Haines previously won a national title at 157 pounds and finished third at 174 pounds last season. In this year's tournament, he has dominated his opponents and will face a familiar foe, Christopher Minto of Nebraska, in the finals. Haines is focused on challenging himself and competing at his best, rather than getting emotional about this being his last tournament as a Nittany Lion. He hinted that he may continue training with the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club after graduation.

Why it matters

Haines' quest for a second NCAA title at a different weight class highlights his versatility and ability to adapt his wrestling style. As a senior, this tournament represents the culmination of his college career, and a successful outcome would cement his legacy as one of Penn State's elite wrestlers.

The details

Haines began the tournament with a pinfall victory and has since tech-falled all of his other opponents, showcasing his dominance. He will face Christopher Minto of Nebraska in the finals, an opponent he has defeated twice this season. Haines expects both wrestlers to have made adjustments since their previous matchups, setting up an intriguing final bout.

  • Haines won the national championship at 157 pounds in a previous season.
  • Haines finished third at 174 pounds in last year's NCAA Championships.
  • The 2026 NCAA Wrestling Championships are taking place in Cleveland.

The players

Levi Haines

A senior wrestler at Penn State University who is seeking his second NCAA title, this time at 174 pounds.

Christopher Minto

A wrestler from the University of Nebraska who will face Haines in the NCAA Championship final.

Cael Sanderson

The head coach of the Penn State wrestling team, who has helped Haines achieve his goals.

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What they’re saying

“I'm trying to challenge myself and do better every time I step on the mat. I think I've just done a good job this tournament being myself and competing the way I want to compete.”

— Levi Haines, Penn State Wrestler

“I think we've both probably made some adjustments in our game, really appreciate guys like Christopher always forcing me to get better and kind of adjust your wrestling.”

— Levi Haines, Penn State Wrestler

What’s next

Haines will face Christopher Minto of Nebraska in the NCAA Championship final on Saturday, March 23rd.

The takeaway

Levi Haines' quest for a second NCAA title at a different weight class demonstrates his versatility and ability to adapt his wrestling style. As he competes in his final tournament as a Nittany Lion, Haines is focused on challenging himself and finishing his college career on a high note.