YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – There were plenty of highlights during the Youngstown State University women’s basketball team’s 75-66 win over Northern Kentucky on Wednesday, but there was also a highlight before the game.

Before the National Anthem was played at Beeghly Center, Michael Latessa, executive director of The Rich Center for Autism, was recognized for his accomplishments. YSU basketball player Malia Magestro, who is also a student-athlete ambassador for The Rich Center, presented Latessa with a customized YSU Rich Center for Autism jersey. 

The team also wore the customized jerseys during the game, and the game-worn jerseys are being auctioned HERE. Proceeds will benefit the Rich Center. The auction will close at 7 p.m. Jan. 21, and winners will be able to pick up their jerseys at the YSU Athletic Ticket Office in Stambaugh Stadium during regular business hours starting Jan. 22. 

Latessa etched his name in YSU history as the first individual to earn a bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degree while also excelling as a national champion student-athlete. 

Latessa’s achievement was completed in December 2024 when he graduated with his doctorate degree.

Latessa’s accomplishments are rooted in both his academic excellence and his commitment to athletic achievement. He helped guide the 1997 YSU football team to a national championship under the leadership of head coach Jim Tressel.

“Michael Latessa is a true embodiment of the values that define Youngstown State University,” YSU President Bill Johnson said in a news release earlier this month. “His dedication to both his studies and his athletic career sets a standard of excellence for all of us. He has not only achieved the highest levels of academic success, but he has also played an integral role in advancing the mission of The Rich Center for Autism, showing that leadership extends beyond the classroom and the playing field.”

As executive director of The Rich Center for Autism, Latessa remains deeply involved in the university community and continues to make an impact through his philanthropic efforts.

Pictured at top: YSU basketball player Malia Magestro presents Michael Latessa with a customized YSU Rich Center for Autism jersey Wednesday.