Budd went 2-0 last week with victories against eighth-ranked Mercyhurst and West Liberty. The true freshman produced arguably Gannon’s biggest win of the season against Mercyhurst despite entering the bout with a 5-10 overall record and 1-6 mark in dual matches. With Gannon leading 19-12 and two bouts left, Budd upset the region’s third-ranked wrestler in Wes Phipps 8-6 to clinch the team victory. If Budd had lost, the team meet would have ended in a 19-19 tie that would have went to Mercyhurst on criteria. Budd took control after an early Phipps takedown with an escape, takedown and four-point nearfall to create a 7-2 lead. Phipps chipped away with an escape and takedown during the second period to draw within 7-6. Budd started the final period down and escaped to bump his lead to 8-6 and then held off Phipps for the victory. The Golden Knights snapped a five-meet losing streak against the Lakers, winning for the first time in the series since a 27-15 decision January 27, 2011 at the Hammermill Center. Gannon wrestled its fifth nationally-ranked team this season, improving to 4-1 in those meets. The Golden Knights also defeated Wheeling Jesuit which is listed among others receiving votes. The victory came against Gannon's highest-ranked opponent since the Golden Knights dealt then No. 6 Pitt-Johnstown a 28-6 loss at the Hammermill Center on January 13, 2011.
