​Habtom Samuel has run his last race as a Lobo. New Mexico’s standout junior distance runner and five-time NCAA champion is choosing to forgo his final year of eligibility to turn professional, he announced on social media Tuesday. After capturing NCAA titles in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters last month, Samuel told reporters at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships that he would “definitely” return for a final year at UNM. Yet on Tuesday, the most decorated athlete in program history stated that this is the “right time” to move into a pro career while completing his final semester of coursework at the university. “Finishing my education remains a priority, and I’m proud to continue working toward my degree while pursuing my professional goals,” he wrote in an Instagram post. “I’m incredibly grateful to my family, coaches, teammates, (UNM) and everyone else who has supported me throughout this journey.”
Although he announced an immediate move to the pro ranks, Samuel has not yet signed with a brand, according to the Journal. He has had an NIL deal with HOKA for the last two years, and his appeal is expected to rise after his national titles across cross country and indoor and outdoor track and field helped solidify his reputation as a Lobo last season. Some notable Lobo track and field news followed: Habtom Samuel is opting out of his final year of eligibility and turning pro. The five-time NCAA champion said in June that he planned to return for his senior season at UNM, but now it appears he has signed with HOKA, with whom he had an NIL arrangement over the past two years.
UNM head track and field coach Darren Gauson said he spoke with Samuel “a good amount” about pursuing a professional career, but learned of his decision just Tuesday. He added that Samuel consulted with former Lobo great Josh Kerr and other professionals in his circle before making the announcement. “I think it was one of those situations where your market value is really high and there’s really nothing left to prove or do; I think he just started to have some doubts about coming back,” Gauson said. “You like to think you’re indestructible, you’re never going to get an injury, but when you’ve dominated the NCAA like he has, it’s like, ‘alright, it’s time to move on and test myself against the next level of athletes.’”
Gauson also noted that he expects most brands to be interested in Samuel, who has already shown his effectiveness against professionals. In May, Samuel ran the then-world-leading 5K at the Sound Running L.A. Track Festival in a field that included former Olympians. “I think anyone will want to sign him,” Gauson said of Samuel. “Obviously he has an NIL deal with HOKA, so they’re going to be eager to keep him, but I’m sure other brands, other companies will be looking for better exposure.”