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The University of Olivet

King named MIAA Most Valuable Wrestler

King named MIAA Most Valuable Wrestler
February 27, 2024

HUDSONVILLE, Mich. – The University of Olivet senior Donovan King has been selected the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) Most Valuable Wrestler for the 2024 season. He earns this honor for a second straight season.

King, the No. 5-ranked wrestler at 285 pounds according to the National Wrestling Coaches Association, posted a perfect 4-0 record in Olivet's four dual matches. Three of his wins were first period pins – 1:08 over Brody Miskimon from Alma College, 50 seconds over Kyler Bills from Trine (Ind.) University and 21 seconds over Mason Slocum from Adrian College. King's fourth win was a 12-0 major decision over CJ Krum from Albion College.

"Donovan continues to be the standard nationally in the league," said Olivet head coach Brandon Brissette. "He is the only returning All-American and has held down a consistent top five national ranking. Donovan dominated the league competition with three falls and a major decision. But what makes it more impressive is two of other heavyweights in the conference are ranked in the top four in the NCAA Regional Rankings."

This season, King has an 11-1 overall record. Of the 11 wins, 10 are bonus point victories – six pins, one forfeit, one technical fall and two major decisions. King's only loss was in the championship match of the Pete Willson Invitational.

King earned the wrestling program's 10th MIAA Most Valuable Wrestler award. He is only the second repeat honoree. Dan Pantaleo was the first two-time honoree in 1983 and 1984. The others Most Valuable Wrestlers were Dave Elliott in 1974, Joe Gibbs in 1977, Mark Clem in 1978, Tyler Grimsley in 2019, Hunter Murphy in 2021 and Owen Guilford in 2022.

King looks to qualify for his third straight NCAA Division III Championship when he competes Friday and Saturday at the 2024 NCAA Division III Central Regional Meet at Ohio Northern University. The top three wrestlers in each weight class will earn a trip to the 2024 NCAA Division III Championship March 15-16 at the La Crosse Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin. King is a two-time NCAA All-American, finishing second in 2022 and fifth in 2023.