The Penn State’s made a deep run in the NIT, advancing to NYC and the Final Four where Mike Brey’s group of underachievers await. While Ed DeChellis was duly recognized for the success of his Nittany Lions during the regular season when he was named Big 10 Coach of the Year, the work he’s doing in the NIT postseason merits attention. With 25 wins, a Penn State record, they’ve had a remarkable two week run.
Round One - George Mason
In the first game, PSU beat George Mason 77 to 73 on their home court. Battle had a terrific game with 24 points, but he received strong support from Brooks (13), Babb (11), and Jones (11). Their strong man in the middle, Jamelle Cornely, was injured, played only 15 minutes, and scored only 2 points. An amazing performance given that Cornely was unable to play most of the game. They shot 50 percent from the field and 45 percent from the 3 point line.
Round Two- Rams from Rhode Island
They beat Rhode Island 83 to 72. Cornely did not play, but Penn State was led by Pringle (19), Battle (16), Jones (14), and Babb (13). Jones added 10 rebounds to make up for the absence of Cornerly. Again, their shooting was impressive as they broke into 80 points, shoot 45 percent from the field, 44 percent from the three point line.
Round Three- Florida Gators
This was the most impressive performance. The Gators Coach, Billy Donovan, uses a version of Rick Pitino’s pressing defense currently employed at Louisville, though it’s not nearly as successful this season. The game was close from beginning to end, one of the best games we have watched this year.
Without doubt, the most impressive player performance was Cornely who scored 23 points and grabbed 12 rebounds even though his shoulder was heavily bandaged. He clearly was playing with one arm, but the strength and power of his game was the deciding factor in this game. He commanded the paint with powerful moves to the basket and the Gators had no one who could stop him.
Cornely has to possess one of the best pair of hands in college basketball as the ball was fully in his command in the paint. At 6′5″ and 240 pounds, he is a monster and has not been given the recognition he deserves. The commentators indicated that Cornely wants to finish his fine career at PSU with a great showing and he put together quite a performance against the Gators. This is what senior leadership can bring to a team and I would not want to bet against the Lions making the Championship game.
For the Big Ten, the Penn State success is a big deal and they should get more recognition for their fine run. Remember, the Ohio State Buckeyes won the NIT last year and it was another senior, Jamar Butler, who provided the guts and leadership.
Come On Big Ten
Yes, let’s hear some cheers for the successful Nittany Lions NIT run. The NIT field was strong and they have successfully moved to the NIT Final Four, serving as a strong representative for the Big Ten. They are averaging well over 70 points, shooting well, and more than holding their own against a strong NIT field. As Big Ten fans, we should be rooting for their success. Two NIT champs in a row is not shabby!
Original Story:
http://hoopraker.com/2009/03/26/let-t...
