In the most recent AP poll, Penn State received three points. The Nittany Lions were within the top 30 of vote getters two weeks ago, but they are now the de-facto 45th overall team.
The update follows a 1-0 week as the Nittany Lions defeated Drexel at Wells Fargo Center on Saturday.
Penn State was led by Yanic Konan Niederhauser, who had 18 points and three blocks. PSU nearly pulled away in the second half, but Drexel’s Yame Butler and Kevon Vanderhorst kept the Dragons within striking distance. Zach Hicks (eight points, six rebounds, six assists and four steals), who had an off-shooting night, netted a 3 late to put the game out of reach.
Add Nittany Sports Now as a preferred source in Google! Click here to add us.On the year, Penn State is off to its best start through 12 games in five years with a 10-2 record. The Nittany Lions are a NET 32 team and rank 34th in KenPom. In other major categories, PSU is:
- 7th in points per game: 88.4
- 8th in assists per game: 19.0
- 9th in turnovers forced per game: 17.25
- 10th in scoring margin: 21.3
- 12th in field goal percentage: 50.8
- 13th in steals per game: 10.3
Mike Rhoades’ squad has built its identity on the defensive side of the ball and plays an egalitarian style of offense. Although Ace Baldwin Jr. is the leader on both sides of the court, per Stathead, PSU is one of eight teams to have four players averaging at least 10 points and one steal.
Penn State will wrap up nonconference play against Penn on Saturday at the Bryce Jordan Center. Tip off is scheduled for 1 p.m.
