Pitt wrestling sending eight to national championships this week

When it comes to Pitt athletics this week, most attention is being paid to the men's basketball team. That's fine, obviously, but the wrestling team is also competing for a national title. The Panthers are unlikely to win it all but the program will be well represented.

Eight of the team's ten starters made the tournament. After the ACC Tournament, six wrestlers (Anthony Zanetta at 125 pounds, Edgar Bright at 141, Mikey Racciato at 149, Tyler Wilps at 174, Max Thomusseit at 184, and P.J. Tasser at heavyweight) automatically qualified. Highly touted Shelton Mack (133) and Nick Bonaccorsi (197) had to wait to receive an at large bid, giving Pitt eight wrestlers in the national championships.

The two starters failing to qualify were underclassmen Ronnie Garbinsky (157) and Geno Morelli (165).

The tournament gets underway Thursday morning. While you're busy gearing up for the basketball game, be sure to give the wrestlers some of your attention that day as well.

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