Zeke’s Gold

Nathaniel Ezekiel, who etched his name in gold as one of the most dominant athletes in Baylor track and field history, capped off his collegiate career with a historic run of success. The USTFCCCA named Ezekiel its Outdoor Men’s National Track Athlete of the Year for 2025, an honor not bestowed on a Baylor athlete since legendary sprinter Jeremy Wariner in 2004. This prestigious award recognizes a phenomenal season that also saw him become a finalist for The Bowerman, collegiate track and field’s highest honor. After winning both the 27,000-plus fan vote and membership vote, Ezekiel will hope to hear his name on December 18 during the annual USTFCCCA Convention, which will be held at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas.

Ezekiel’s final collegiate season was defined by record-breaking performances, highlighted by his national title in the 400-meter hurdles at the NCAA Outdoor Championships. His personal-best time of 47.49 seconds was the third-fastest mark in collegiate history, making him just the third Bear to ever win the event. His nine All-America honors, multiple Big 12 titles and several program records solidified his legacy at Baylor. Unmatched in his event, Ezekiel is the only athlete in NCAA history to hold four all-time top 10 marks in the 400mH, a testament to his consistent excellence. As he now transitions to his professional career and represents his home country of Nigeria on the world stage, Ezekiel carries with him the support of the Baylor Family.