Nittany Lions Conclude Non-Conference Play Against N.C. Central Monday

The Penn State Nittany Lions are set to conclude their non-conference play on Monday against North Carolina Central. The game will take place at the Bryce Jordan Center, with tipoff scheduled for 1 p.m. It will be broadcasted nationally on the Big Ten Network.

Nittany Lions vs. N.C. Central: A First-Time Encounter

This matchup marks the first-ever meeting between Penn State and the Eagles. The Nittany Lions enter this game with a season record of 8-4, boasting an 8-2 mark in non-conference play. They have also secured 15 consecutive victories at home in non-conference games at the Bryce Jordan Center.

Key Players and Statistics

• Freddie Dilione V: Leading scorer with an average of 14.9 points per game.
• Kayden Mingo: Averaging 14.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game.
• Melih Tunca: Contributing an average of 11.1 points per game.

If victorious against N.C. Central, Penn State will extend its winning streak to 16 non-conference home games. Under the leadership of head coach Mike Rhoades, the team currently holds a remarkable 19-1 record in non-conference home games.

North Carolina Central’s Season Overview

The Eagles have faced challenges this season, recording a 4-10 overall record. Their victories include wins over Bluefield State, Toccoa Falls, CarolinaU, and Mid-Atlantic Christian. However, North Carolina Central has struggled in away games, with an 0-8 record on the road.

Penn State’s Strong Performance Metrics

The Nittany Lions rank among the top 20 teams nationally in several statistical categories:

• Fewest turnovers per game: 9.1 (5th nationally)
• Fewest fouls per game: 14.3 (18th nationally)
• Turnover margin: +4.5 (19th nationally)

Impressive Individual Achievements

Redshirt junior Freddie Dilione V has shown significant improvement this season. He averages 14.9 points, along with 3.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game. Freshman Kayden Mingo stands out as the only freshman in the nation averaging over 14 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals per game.

A Promising Roster

Penn State’s current roster is considered one of the most inexperienced in Division I. It includes one senior, two juniors, two sophomores, and eight freshmen. The team has welcomed 10 new players this season, retaining only a small percentage of its statistics from last year.

Looking Ahead

Following the matchup with North Carolina Central, the Nittany Lions will host #20 Illinois in Philadelphia on Saturday night. This highly anticipated game will tip off at 7 p.m. and is part of the schedule presented by the Pennsylvania Auto Theft Prevention Authority.