Katy Tompkins graduate and UIL 6A state high jump champion Etoro Bassey is set to make his debut at the U20 Championships and Nike Outdoor Nationals this summer in Eugene, Oregon.
“Even though I qualified last season as a junior, I didn’t feel like I was ready for that level of competition,” Bassey said. “Now that I’ve proven I’m one of the best jumpers in the nation, I feel like I can definitely compete at the national level.”
Bassey’s rise has been steady and impressive. As a sophomore, he cleared 6-feet-4 and reached the Area meet. The following year, he improved to 6-feet-10 at Regionals. But it was his senior season that put him in elite territory. In his first meet of the year in Dickinson, Bassey shattered Tompkins’ high jump school record by clearing 7-feet, surpassing the 6-feet-11 mark set in 2017 by former state champion Mason Corbin.
“Breaking the school record early made me realize my potential,” Bassey said. “Knowing that the previous record-holder was a state champion gave me extra motivation. I wanted to stay at the top.”
Bassey didn’t stop there—he cleared 7-feet-2 inches at Regionals, reclaiming his school record and securing the top high jump ranking in Texas. He followed that up with a 7-foot-1 jump at the UIL 6A State track meet to take home the gold.
“My only goal coming into senior year was to win state,” said Bassey. “I ended up accomplishing way more. Now, I’m excited to compete in Oregon and see how far I can push myself.”
Bassey’s first appearance at the U20 and Nike Outdoor Championships—two of the country’s most competitive youth track meets—will take place June 19–20 at the iconic Hayward Field.
To prepare, Bassey has focused on maintaining speed and explosiveness. Since school let out, he’s run the 100 meters and 200 meters at the Rice All-Comers track meet to stay sharp.
“I ran those sprints to keep my speed up,” said Bassey. “And I still high jump twice a week to keep my form locked in.”
In the weight room, Bassey focuses on explosive lifts like front squats, back squats and power cleans to get stronger.
“I lift twice a week now,” said Bassey. “It’s all about explosive movement.”
With his high school career winding down, Bassey hopes to cap it off on a high note in Oregon—both as a finale and a launchpad for what’s next.
“This is a big step for my confidence,” he said. “It’s not just about ending high school strong—this is preparing me for the college level.”
This fall, Bassey will take his talents to Texas A&M, a decision driven by both academics and athletics.
“I want to study chemical engineering and A&M has a great program,” said Bassey. “Their coaching staff also has a long track record of developing champions. I believe they can help me reach my goals, both in college and when I turn pro. Plus, I love the campus and the facilities. They’re the best in the state.”
When it comes to studying elite high jumpers, Bassey looks up to someone close to home—Carter Bajoit, a recent Texas A&M graduate.
“He’s one of my favorites,” Bassey said. “He actually helped me with my college decision. He’s super consistent and was really welcoming when I met him. Seeing his success shows how strong the program and culture are at A&M.”
“Etoro’s journey is just getting started and Texas A&M snagged the best in the state & nation,” said Tompkins’ head track coach Anthony Escamilla. “The nation is set to see a confident, well-rounded individual who is capable of big things. Etoro jumps at his best under pressure, while staying humble and kind. The Bassey Way. His parents have raised a great young man.”
About Etoro Bassey:
Class: 2025
IG: @etorobassey_
Twitter: @etorobassey2
Events: high jumper
Height & weight: 6-feet-6, 195 pounds
Favorite artist: Rod Wave
Status: Committed to Texas A&M University
Favorite subjects: Math
Shout-outs: Coach Anthony Escamilla
