Illinois wrestler Lucas Byrd has been named to the 2024-25 Academic All-America Men’s At-Large First Team by the College Sports Communicators (CSC). This is Byrd’s first CSC Academic All-America selection and marks the fourth time an Illini wrestler has received this honor. Previous recipients include John Lockhart, Steve Marianetti, and Alex Tirapelle. Additionally, Byrd has been recognized as an Academic All-Big Ten performer for four consecutive seasons.
During his senior season, Byrd participated in 24 matches and achieved a record of 23-1 (.958), securing both NCAA and Big Ten titles. These victories represent the program’s 25th national title and 79th Big Ten title. Throughout his campaign, he recorded a pin and six major decisions, scoring 42 points in dual action—the second-highest on the team.
Byrd is joined by fellow first-team CSC Academic All-America selection Kenta Miyoshi from men’s tennis and second-team selection Ryan Voois from men’s golf, bringing Illinois’ total honorees to three for the 2024-25 year. Overall, Illinois Athletics has produced 116 CSC Academic All-Americans in its history.
