Iowa Basketball: Hawkeyes Climbing The Rankings In Big Ten
By Kenny Levine
6. Penn State (16-9, 6-6)
Last Week: 6
After some puzzling losses early in conference play, Penn State is finally performing to the talents on its roster. After upsetting Ohio State two weeks ago, it looked like PSU was going to pull off another massive upset. Penn State led by as much as 13 points at the Breslin Center on Wednesday. However, thanks to a late Michigan State surge, the Lions fell by a final of 76-68. Penn State responded to that loss by coming out and dunking all over the Iowa Hawkeyes. The Nittany Lions got inside early and often and won 82-58 in a dominating performance.
Penn State will look to keep its momentum going with a couple wins this week. Penn State will host Maryland Wednesday night followed by a trip to Champaign to take on Illinois Sunday night. An NCAA Tournament berth is unlikely for Penn State, but a strong finish can give them an NIT berth and some positive vibes heading into next season.