Nathaniel Ezekiel’s Triumph: A Season of Records and Recognition
Nathaniel Ezekiel, a Nigerian track and field athlete representing Baylor University, has etched his name into collegiate sports history with a remarkable 2025 season, culminating in his recognition as the NCAA Division I Men’s Outdoor Track & Field National Track Athlete of the Year. This prestigious award, bestowed by the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA), places Ezekiel in an elite group, becoming only the second Baylor athlete to achieve this honor, following in the footsteps of Olympic gold medalist Jeremy Wariner, who last claimed the title in 2004. Ezekiel’s journey to this pinnacle has been paved with record-breaking performances, dominant victories, and a level of consistency rarely seen in collegiate athletics. This achievement underscores not only his individual talent but also the strength of the Baylor track and field program.
Ezekiel’s crowning achievement of the season came at the NCAA Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Oregon, where he seized the national title in the men’s 400m hurdles. His winning time of 47.49 seconds not only secured him the gold medal but also propelled him to the third spot on the all-time collegiate list for the event. This performance cemented his status as one of the most promising hurdlers in the world. Remarkably, this wasn’t just a single standout performance; Ezekiel consistently delivered elite-level times throughout the season. He achieved the unprecedented feat of recording multiple top-ten all-time marks in the 400m hurdles within a single season, a testament to his dedication and unwavering focus. In fact, he accomplished this remarkable feat not twice, but four times, further solidifying his dominance in the event.
Ezekiel’s success extended beyond the outdoor track. Earlier in the year, at the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Indoor Championships in Texas, he shattered the African indoor 400m record with a blistering time of 44.74 seconds, placing him eighth on the global all-time list for the event. This indoor triumph showcased his versatility and ability to excel across different competitive environments. His journey to the NCAA finals was marked by a series of commanding performances, including a successful defense of his Big 12 Conference title, where he set a new championship record of 47.89 seconds. This string of victories demonstrated his consistency and ability to perform under pressure, traits that define champions.
The recognition of Ezekiel’s accomplishments doesn’t end with the National Track Athlete of the Year award. His exceptional season has also placed him in contention for The Bowerman, the highest individual honor in US collegiate track and field. Named after legendary Oregon coach Bill Bowerman, this award recognizes the best male and female athletes based solely on their performances during both the indoor and outdoor seasons. The selection process involves a comprehensive evaluation by a panel of coaches, media representatives, statisticians, and fans, ensuring a holistic assessment of athletic achievement. The winner will be announced in December, further adding to the anticipation surrounding Ezekiel’s remarkable year.
Ezekiel’s individual success is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and natural talent. His coaching staff at Baylor University has played a crucial role in his development, providing him with the guidance and support necessary to reach his full potential. The university’s commitment to athletic excellence has created an environment where student-athletes can thrive both on and off the field. Ezekiel’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, demonstrating that with perseverance and dedication, anything is possible.
The NCAA also recognized other outstanding athletes and coaches for their remarkable performances during the 2025 season. Jamaica’s Ralford Mullings earned the National Men’s Field Athlete of the Year accolade for his record-breaking discus throw, highlighting the global reach of collegiate athletics. Savannah Sutherland of Michigan claimed the Women’s Track Athlete of the Year award after shattering the 400m hurdles collegiate record, further demonstrating the high level of competition in women’s track and field. The coaching honors went to Quincy Watts of Southern California and Caryl Smith Gilbert of Georgia, recognizing their leadership in guiding their respective teams to national titles. These awards underscore the depth of talent and coaching expertise within collegiate athletics.
