OU's Bates Named Big 12 Wrestler Of The Week

Feb. 15, 2000

NORMAN, Okla. - University of Oklahoma senior Quantres Bates was selected the Big 12 Conference Wrestler of the Week as announced by the league office Tuesday. The 125-pounder pinned Oklahoma State's sixth-ranked Jeff Ragan in the closing second of the first period on Sunday. The win avenged Bates only loss of the season, a 12-10 decision to Ragan at the National Duals. Bates, in his first year with the Sooners, is now 21-1 on the season and is currently ranked third in the nation by Amateur Wrestling News and fourth by InterMat. He is the second Sooner wrestler to win the award this season.

Bates competed at Findlay College his first three seasons and compiled a record of 87-19, seventh best in school history. He also won two NAIA national championships, one at 118 pounds as a sophomore and one at 133 pounds as a junior. Bates led the Roughnecks in takedowns, 116, and shared the team lead in escapes, 36. He placed fifth at the NAIA Wrestling Championships his freshman year and was named to the Amateur Wrestling News All-Rookie team.

"When Quantres transferred, there were a number of detractors who questioned if he could compete at this level," said Head Coach Jack Spates. "Having watched him on film I was confident he could, especially in light of his previous accomplishments. When I saw his work ethic and attitude, there was no question in my mind that he would be great. That confidence is being justified with this award, his national ranking and with his performance in virtually every match."

"I'm glad to win the honor," said Bates. "I've had a long hard couple of weeks of work. It's all starting to pay off. Hopefully I can keep performing like I am now, keep improving and win nationals."

Bates and the rest of the Sooners will travel to Columbia, Mo., to battle the Missouri Wednesday, Feb. 16. Action begins at 8 p.m.