It's the annual "throwback game" for the Nittany Lions tonight as they return to their old Rec Hall home instead of the more-modern Bryce Jordan Center for this battle vs Wiscy. For the record, Penn State has split a pair of dates at Rec Hall the past two seasons, including an upset over Illinois two years ago. Though it's not going great lately for Mike Rhoades' crew, a loser in five straight and eight of nine, note several losses, including vs. ranked Illinois, Michigan, and Purdue, were competitive, and star frosh G Kayden Mingo (1.5.2) ppg did return to active duty in Sunday's loss at Maryland. Though a better effort from recently-limping G Freddie Dilione would help. Play Penn State
The Badgers rank 12th nationally in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency (122.9), while Penn State’s defense has plummeted to 107.7 AdjD, ranking dead last in the Big Ten in field goal percentage allowed (48.3%). The deciding factor is the interior. Penn State surrenders a staggering 57% shooting on two-point attempts. Furthermore, with leading scorer Freddie Dilione limited by an ankle injury, Penn State lacks the firepower to trade baskets in a high-efficiency game. This is a revenge spot for Wisconsin, who were upset as 11-point home favorites by the Nittany Lions last March. Expect Wisconsin to dominate the paint and cover comfortably.
