In a highly anticipated move, reigning 160‑lb Pennsylvania state champ and the Class of 2027’s #1 overall recruit, Melvin Miller, has officially shared his Top 9 list of prospective college wrestling programs on Instagram today.
🏆 Miller’s Top 9 Schools
- Arizona State
- Iowa
- Michigan
- Nebraska
- NC State
- Oklahoma State
- Penn State
- Pittsburgh
- Missouri
As a sophomore at Bishop McCort High School, Miller has built a dominant resume: he topped the Class of 2027 big board, secured a win at Fargo Junior Nationals in 2024, reached the finals of the U20 World Team Trials, and claimed the 2025 Pennsylvania AA title along with the Powerade crown last December.
“I’m focused, driven, and know exactly what I want & what I am looking for,” Miller explained, highlighting the importance of aligning with a program that matches his goals for development, competition, and exposure.
🔍 The Powerhouse Lineup
This elite nine encompasses perennial wrestling juggernauts and rising programs alike:
- Penn State & Iowa: Traditional blue-bloods with storied histories and top-tier coaching. Penn State excels in both recruitment and championship trophies, while Iowa is known for its relentless culture.
- Oklahoma State & Michigan: Heavyweights regularly breeding NCAA champs through strong foundations and dynamic coaching staffs.
- Nebraska & Arizona State: Seeking to cement their development trajectory, offering opportunity to high-ceiling athletes.
- NC State & Pittsburgh: On the rise, with growing investment in their wrestling infrastructures and an increasing presence in key conference competitions.
- Missouri: A mid-tier contender aiming to enhance its wrestling presence on the national stage.
🧭 What Comes Next
All top prospects in the Class of 2027 face a competitive recruitment cycle, and Miller is no exception. With finalists like Bo Bassett (Class of 2026) and Jax Forrest among his classmates—both connected to standout programs like Iowa and Oklahoma State—Miller is navigating a high-stakes path.
Expect regular updates as official visits unfold, commitments begin to fall, and the landscape evolves. Miller’s expressed clarity—knowing “exactly what I am looking for”—hints he’s nearing the point of narrowing this illustrious nine.
📅 Stay Tuned
- Timeline: Commitments for Class of 2027 wrestlers often land between late fall 2025 and early spring 2026.
- Watchpoints: Tracking Miller’s official visits, onsite workouts, and potential verbal commitment.
- Impact: Whichever program lands Miller gains not only an elite athlete but also a potential foundation stone for sustained success.
In Summary, Melvin Miller’s Top 9 list is packed with tradition, momentum, and emerging opportunity. With championships under his belt, top-tier national ranking, and defined recruiting targets, the countdown to his decision is one to watch.