Analyzing star-studded fields of past Las Vegas Invitationals

The Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational annually is one of the top in-season college wrestling tournaments. Some say it's a mini-NCAAs. Which year had the best amount of star power?

The first Las Vegas Invitational took place in December of 1982, where Oklahoma State claimed the inaugural team championship. Individually, the tournament would feature 20 wrestlers who would later place at the NCAA Division I championships that season. Back in 1982-83, the 34-team field placed just six wrestlers per weight class.

That 1982-83 tournament placed 60 wrestlers. Basic elementary school math tells you 20 out of 60 placing is a third. Approximately 30 percent of the known* (see below) placewinners from the Las Vegas Invitational place at the NCAA Division I Championships annually.

Yes, that’s the case and that’s how the Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational’s allure grew among wrestling fans and programs. What were some of the best weight classes historically at the CKLV? Here’s a few contenders.

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