Happy Saturday. Sometime around the point that Indiana opens up a double digit lead, Penn State’s basketball team will be in action for the second time this season.
In one of the year’s more oddly timed
and scheduled games, the Lions (1-0) will be on the road to face the Chargers (0-2) today at 1 p.m. New Haven is in its first year as a D1 basketball program and their home arena is the size of a small high school gym.
But it’s there that the Lions will look for a little more consistency than what they saw in their season opener against Fairfield. On that night, Penn State fell behind early before ultimately prevailing with a late run to avoid a totally embarrassing loss in what figures to be a year with some head-scratching results.
Scouting the Opposition
So, let’s talk about New Haven. They’re a member of the NEC, regarded as one of the lowest of low majors in D1, and they’re off to an 0-2 start, including a near 20-point loss on Friday at home against Columbia..
The Chargers were a solid D2 program in their last few years, advancing to the regional round of the NCAA tournament in both 2022 and 2023, including an Elite Eight appearance in 2023.
New Haven is led by three players who are averaging double figures after the first pair of games. Andre Pasha leads the way, as the forward is averaging team highs in points (17.0) and rebounds (6.0). Najimi George and Maison Adelaye are also in double figures in terms of average.
What to Watch For
Lineup Tweaks?: Melih Tunca led the Lions in scoring with 19 points in the season opener against Fairfield. He did that in 33 minutes, but it was 33 minutes off the bench. Will he get the start in the second game of the season? Meanwhile, Tibor Mirtic had a team-best 11 rebounds in the victory. He also came off the bench. So, how will Mike Rhoades adjust the lineup (if at all) in this second game.
Can They Rebound?: Penn State narrowly outrebounded Fairfield earlier this week in the victory. This came after Penn State’s front line was maligned in an exhibition loss at Dayton. Can Penn State’s retooled front court perform better against a team that it should be better than in terms of sheer talent?
A Better Start: Penn State fell behind 15-1 against Fairfield the other night. Even in what will not be a tough road environment, can the Lions get out on their front foot more effectively?
Enjoy this as a Game Thread: The usual rules apply. Be nice to each other. No illegal streams. Watch the bus flame!
Prediction
Penn State 73, New Haven 60. This better be a win. Here’s to hoping Penn State plays better early and also that they’re able to take advantage of New Haven playing on Friday.
