The Wrights’ Big Night

By Patrick Everson

Last Saturday, in the third go-round of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, Statler Wright won the night, taking first in saddle broncs with an 88.25-pont ride aboard Angel Cat.

To win that go-round buckle, Statler had to outduel 14 others, including older brothers Ryder – who tied for second – and Stetson – who finished just outside the top six and a paycheck,

That got Statler thinking about what the coolest thing would be.

“A three-way tie for the win would be awesome,” he said.

In Friday night’s ninth go-round, the Wright brothers got about as close to that as one could reasonably expect: A 1-2-3 finish at the Thomas & Mack Center.

Stetson took the round with an 89.75-point ride, followed by Statler at 88 and Ryder at 86.5.

“It’s freaking awesome,” said Stetson, who had to exit the 2023 Wrangler NFR after two nights with a serious groin injury, then missed the entire 2024 season. “First time being here with Statler, and then finally getting back to ride with Ryder, it’s freaking special, that’s for dang sure.”

A night like this has been discussed between the brothers for a long time.

“Something we’ve dreamed of since we were kids is getting here and dominating. This whole NFR has just been pretty sweet,” Stetson said.

Friday night marked Stetson’s third saddle bronc go-round win of the week, as he pursues not only a sixth all-around world championship, but is also looking for the saddle bronc and bull riding world titles, too.

Statler also has three saddle bronc go-round wins this week, something big brother has enjoyed.

“It’s awesome, because you big brother him all year and tease him. And then he shows up and starts kicking your ass. It’s pretty fun,” Stetson said. “All of it’s fun. Watching these two both win is pretty dang special.”

Ryder doesn’t have a go-round win through nine nights, but he’s cashed in six of nine go-rounds. Along with the solo second Friday, he was also second in Round 4, and he tied for second in Rounds 2 and 3.

And Ryder continues to lead the season-long world standings in saddle broncs. So while he might finish without a go-round win, he very well could take the biggest prize of the gold buckle come Saturday night.

Statler leads the NFR average and is now No. 3 in the world standings, and Stetson sits fourth in the world. With one ride left, it’s shaping up to be a wild fight on Saturday night.

Get your popcorn!