“If you are good at something, never do it for free,” Noah Lyles had said quoting Heath Ledger’s Joker when asked why he didn’t prioritize education. Having committed to the University of Florida back in 2015 before changing his mind and signing an eight-year with Adidas in July the next year, Lyles’ plan was clear: Why take a four-year detour? Thankfully, his decision has paid off in dividends, and the same critics who doubted him now hail him for his decision. Can Quincy Wilson repeat the same? Let’s rephrase that: Does Quincy Wilson want to do the same?

Well, he certainly can if he wants to. Having achieved more than what was expected of him—all within 17—the only thing that’s left for Wilson is to cross over to the professional realm. However, looks like the Bullis High School junior is way more traditional than we thought.

On June 4, the young sprinter posted an image on Instagram that instantly sparked interest. The caption? “thank you @avalmon @coach_siebert @dezbryant_ for coming to my house and talking about what University of Maryland has to offer #feartheturtle🐢 #umd #notcommited.” The image? Wilson at home, standing with Maryland track coaches Andrew Valmon, Danielle Siebert, and sprint legend Dezerea Bryant-Moore. Translation? Wilson’s parents – 1. Wilson – 0.

Hilariously, Monique and Roy Wilson has never let their son’s fame get to them. In fact, even when young Quincy was at the Olympic village—as close as he can get to his dream—his mum made sure the sprinter got his summer reading done. “I was supposed to do my required reading while I was in the village, man, I didn’t do nothing. I did the reading for like two days. My mom said, ‘You think you’re getting out of it? You’re reading this book’,” the track & field athlete had said in a conversation with Olympics.com last year, before adding, “So what’s keeping him in school instead of signing a pro contract? “My schoolwork. I’m an A-average student, and my parents are not going to let me go out there like that.”

Even when Quincy had earned the Head of Upper School Award in May 2024 for excelling in both academics (honor roll) and athletics, his mother wrote on Instagram, “Today Quincy received a distinguished award from his Upper School Head. As parents, we don’t [just] care how many races he’s won or records he’s broken on the track, hearing the head of school speak highly of Quincy made tears fall from our eyes. We’re incredibly proud of Quincy and the young man he’s becoming. Keep up the great work Quincy.” However, truth be told, it’s not like Wilson’s education is all about his parents.

Even the youngster realizes where his priorities should lie. “Don’t be in a hurry to grow up,” he keeps reminding himself every now and then.

Having said that, Wilson is in rare territory. No high school sprinter in recent memory has commanded this level of national attention, NIL potential, and competitive leverage. He’s already signed an NIL deal—a groundbreaking move for someone his age—and he hasn’t even chosen his next school yet. Yet the most fascinating part? The maturity in his approach. Wilson isn’t rushing to cash in or leap into a pro career just because others have. He’s playing chess, not checkers — building a foundation for longevity, not just a quick paycheck.

And understandably, his list of preference includes so many names.

Quincy Wilson has been in the books of big players 

Back in April, Quincy Wilson sent the track world into a frenzy with a single Instagram post. The rising sprint sensation stood shoulder-to-shoulder with LSU assistant coach and former NFL wide receiver, Bennie Brazell, throwing up the unmistakable “L” hand gesture. Was it a subtle commitment hint? A recruiting tease? Fans haven’t stopped speculating since.

But LSU isn’t the only program on the hunt. Texas A&M, Tennessee, and Georgia are all making aggressive plays for Wilson, each backed by powerful NIL war chests. And don’t count out the Florida Gators just yet . Wilson just wrapped up an official visit to Gainesville, where the NIL game is just as competitive and the track legacy runs deep.

Yet, amid the recruiting hype, a different conversation is emerging. During the Florida Relays, Wilson, usually untouchable down the stretch, was unexpectedly reeled in during the final leg of a race. It raised a red flag: Is the high school phenom running himself into the ground?

Some insiders are beginning to wonder if Wilson’s packed race schedule is taking a toll. At just 16, he’s been clocking elite-level times and racing with the intensity of a pro. A structured college program might be exactly what he needs — a place to fine-tune the mechanics, reduce the racing grind, and elevate without burning out. The talent is there. The offers are lining up. Now, the question is, where will Wilson choose to grow into the star he’s destined to be?