Penn State continues rolling into Nov. 19 with a 4-0 record after dominating La Salle 83-69. The Nittany Lions host Harvard at the Bryce Jordan Center in University Park. This matchup pits an undefeated squad against a 4-1 Crimson team.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- Penn State is off to a 4-0 start for the fourth-straight year.
- Freddie Dilione V leads scorers averaging 12.3 points per game.
- Harvard brings a tough 4-1 record to Happy Valley.
- The game tips off at 6:30 PM EST and airs on Big Ten Plus.
- Penn State is averaging 81.5 PPG on 52.1% shooting this season.
Penn State’s Perfect Start to the Season
Mike Rhoades has his Nittany Lions clicking on all cylinders through four games. Penn State defeated Fairfield 76-68 on Nov. 3, rolled past New Haven 87-43 just five days later, and narrowly escaped Navy 80-71 on Nov. 11. The most recent win came against La Salle 83-69 last Saturday.
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Freddie Dilione V has emerged as the squad’s leading scorer off the bench. The transfer scored a season-best 19 points against Navy and followed with 16 points against La Salle. Freshman guard Kayden Mingo chipped in 14 points against New Haven and 7 rebounds. Sophomore guard Dominick Stewart is also contributing, averaging 10.5 PPG on the season.
Coach Rhoades emphasized the importance of turnovers in his team’s success. Against La Salle, Penn State forced 15 turnovers and earned 5 steals. The defensive intensity has been a hallmark of the early season performance.
Harvard’s Strong Defensive Profile
Harvard enters University Park with an impressive 4-1 record and a reputation for defensive excellence. The Crimson play a stiff defensive scheme that forces opponents into difficult shots. Penn State’s offensive execution will face its sternest test to date.
The Ivy League program has proven its mettle early this season. While specific matchup details remain limited, Harvard’s track record indicates a well-coached, fundamentally sound team. Penn State knows this game demands precision and execution on the offensive end.
Experts expect a close contest with strong defensive intensity. Some analysts predict Penn State to cover the -12.5 spread, while others suggest the Crimson could keep it competitive. The game will be an important barometer for where Rhoades’ squad truly stands.
What the Numbers Say
| Stat | Penn State | Harvard |
|---|---|---|
| Record (Nov. 20) | 4-0 | 4-1 |
| Points Per Game | 81.5 | TBA |
| Field Goal % | 52.1% | TBA |
| Three-Point % | 39% | TBA |
| Leading Scorer (PPG) | Freddie Dilione V (12.3) | TBA |
Penn State boasts impressive offensive efficiency. The team shoots 52.1% from the field and 39% from three-point range. The free throw line has been another strength at 68.6%. These numbers demonstrate well-balanced offensive firepower.
Harvard’s defensive presence cannot be overlooked. The Crimson defense will demand better shot selection and patience from Penn State than they’ve needed so far.
Keys to Victory
- Turnovers matter most. Penn State must limit careless plays against Harvard’s pressure.
- Dilione and Mingo need to stay aggressive despite defensive adjustments.
- Penn State should force Harvard into mistakes like they did against La Salle.
- Three-point shooting will determine pace and spacing throughout the contest.
- Rebounding could prove critical if the shot isn’t falling early and often.
What’s Next for Penn State After Harvard?
The Nittany Lions travel to Uncasville, Connecticut on Nov. 22 for the Hall of Fame Showcase against Providence. That game airs on TruTV at 4:00 PM EST. Providence represents another serious test as Penn State looks to build its tournament resume.
The Harvard matchup serves as the final tune-up before this major tournament. Winning both games would send Penn State into conference play with real momentum. Fans at the Bryce Jordan Center should expect an intense, defensive battle.
Will Penn State stay perfect, or does Harvard have enough firepower to hand the Nittany Lions their first loss?
Sources
- Penn State Athletics – Official schedule and game information
- ESPN – Game statistics and team records
- Black Shoe Diaries – Game preview analysis
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.