Basketball Splits On the Road

On the men's side, the Nittany Lions played their final game before the Thanksgiving break on Nov. 21 when they traveled to face Malone University in Canton, Oh. In a challenging game against Malone, an NCAA Division II opponent, Penn State DuBois faced an uphill battle, ultimately falling short with a final score of 107-63. Despite a strong effort from individuals like Jaiquil Johnson, who contributed 17 points, the team struggled to find consistent offensive rhythm throughout the game.

The first half proved difficult for the Nittany Lions as Malone took a lead with a score of 50-23. Shooting percentages were a challenge in the initial periods, but the team displayed resilience in the second half, notably improving their shooting to 48%. Kaleb Pryor's 17 points and contributions from Cole Love, Alex Preston, and Beau Verdill off the bench showcased the team's depth and determination.

However, Malone's strong offensive performance, shooting an impressive 65% for the game, proved difficult to contain. Despite Penn State DuBois' efforts to create points off turnovers and in the paint, Malone's dominance in various facets of the game, including fast break points and bench contributions, secured their victory.

Penn State DuBois looked to rebound from the loss when they returned to the hardwood at the PAW Center a week later when they played host to Penn State New Kensington. In a high-scoring matchup, the Nittany Lions faced a tough challenge. Despite their efforts, DuBois struggled to contain New Kensington's dominant inside game, allowing 66 points in the paint. The final score stood at 115-90 in favor of New Kensington.

Benjamin Cunningham led the charge for New Kensington with an impressive 32 points and a staggering 21 rebounds, showcasing his dominance in the paint. Ta'Rasi Means and Shyheim Flanagan contributed significantly, each adding 22 points to their team's scoreboard.

For Penn State DuBois, Johnson emerged as the standout performer, putting up 31 points while showcasing his prowess from beyond the arc with three successful three-pointers. Despite a valiant effort from Johnson and Kaleb Pryor, who added 11 points and dished out seven assists, the Nittany Lions faced difficulties in converting their field goals.

New Kensington's efficient scoring inside the paint proved to be the defining factor, securing them a substantial advantage. Despite a spirited effort from DuBois, the inability to match their opponent's interior presence led to the final score deficit. The bench provided a spark for DuBois, contributing 31 points to the team's total, but it wasn't enough to bridge the gap.

Looking to get back on the winning track on Friday, Penn State DuBois made the trip to visit Penn State Lehigh Valley. In a high-intensity showdown against Lehigh Valley, Penn State DuBois displayed a formidable offensive effort despite a narrow 92-85 loss. The game showcased remarkable performances, particularly from Johnson and Pryor, who combined for an impressive 46 points. Johnson's sharpshooting from beyond the arc, sinking four out of seven three-pointers, was a standout feature, while Pryor's well-rounded game contributed significantly with 20 points, three assists, and an active defensive presence.

Though the Nittany Lions faced a tough challenge, they held their ground with a commendable display of teamwork, securing 27 bench points and effectively capitalizing on turnovers, amassing 36 points off them. Ashton Fortson's solid contributions on both ends of the court, notching 12 points along with four rebounds and two steals, fortified their resilience throughout the game.

Despite the loss, the team exhibited a competitive spirit, trading baskets throughout the game and staying within striking distance until the final moments. With notable efforts from Verdill, who added 14 points and four assists, the Nittany Lions demonstrated a collective determination despite Lehigh Valley's dominant presence in the paint, amassing 40 points from close-range opportunities.

Trying to find another win, Penn State DuBois had that opportunity again on Saturday when they visited Penn State Brandywine. In an intense battle on the court, Penn State DuBois secured a hard-fought victory over Penn State Brandywine with a final score of 71-68. Despite Brandywine's strong start, the Nittany Lions showcased resilience and determination, staging an impressive comeback to seal the win.

Johnson and Pryor led the charge for Penn State DuBois, contributing significantly with 14 points each. Their combined efforts, supported by a balanced performance from Jadon Myers and Jordin Sommers, propelled the team forward. The game saw remarkable plays on both ends, with Pryor's six assists and Sommers' defensive prowess, collecting two steals and challenging the opposition.

Though the shooting percentage wasn't at its peak, the team capitalized on crucial moments, especially from the free-throw line in the second half, boosting their overall performance to secure the win. Verdill's impactful play off the bench, tallying 11 points and three critical blocks, further solidified Penn State DuBois' efforts in securing this vital victory.

The Nittany Lions displayed exceptional teamwork, turning turnovers into opportunities, and leveraging fast breaks effectively to edge past their opponent. With a total team effort and a strong finish, they walked away with a well-deserved win on the road, marking an important triumph in their season.