Penn State Lady Lions vs Oregon Ducks Picks and Predictions January 12th 2025

With Renewed Momentum, No. 15 Oregon Faces Penn State

No. 15 Oregon and Penn State enter Sunday’s Big Ten showdown at University Park, Pa., with similar recent experiences: both were dismantled by Illinois. However, Oregon has used that loss as a turning point, while Penn State is still searching for answers.

Oregon Riding High After Key Wins

Oregon (14-2, 3-2 Big Ten) turned the page after an embarrassing 109-77 defeat to then-No. 22 Illinois earlier this month. The Ducks responded with two impressive victories over Maryland (83-79) and Ohio State (73-71), showcasing resilience and an ability to close out tight games.

Jackson Shelstad has been instrumental in Oregon’s bounce-back. Against Ohio State, he poured in 24 points on 8-of-11 shooting, including a crucial late 3-pointer. Nate Bittle provided a strong interior presence with 21 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks, helping the Ducks overcome a late deficit.

Coach Dana Altman praised the team’s adjustments:

“We really picked it up in the last seven, eight minutes. Nate was such a presence in there, challenging shots and making it tough for anyone driving into the lane. He made the difference.”

The Ducks boast a balanced attack, with their top six scorers hitting at least 14 3-pointers this season. Keeshawn Barthelemy leads the team with 28 triples, and Shelstad adds scoring consistency alongside his late-game heroics.

Penn State Searching for Stability

Penn State (12-4, 2-3 Big Ten) suffered a humbling 91-52 defeat at Illinois on Wednesday, the team’s second straight loss. Injuries have compounded their struggles.

Ace Baldwin Jr., the Nittany Lions’ leader in assists (8.0 per game), missed most of the Illinois game due to a back injury, while starter Puff Johnson (undisclosed injury) was sidelined entirely. Both players are questionable for Sunday’s contest.

Coach Mike Rhoades emphasized resilience amid adversity:
“We need those guys back, but we have to make sure they’re healthy. If they’re unavailable, it’s next man up. There’s no asterisk next to the game; we’ve got to figure it out.”

In Baldwin’s potential absence, Rhoades plans to rely on guard Nick Kern Jr. and forward Zach Hicks, though replacing Baldwin’s playmaking will be no small feat. Hicks, the team’s best sharpshooter, has made 40 3-pointers this season, but he’ll need more support from a squad that has struggled to find offensive consistency in recent games.

Key Matchups

Nate Bittle vs. Yanic Konan Niederhauser

Bittle’s interior dominance was on full display against Ohio State, and his shot-blocking ability could disrupt Penn State’s offense. Niederhauser will need to match Bittle’s physicality in the paint to give the Nittany Lions a fighting chance.

Jackson Shelstad vs. Penn State’s Defense

Shelstad has emerged as a clutch scorer for Oregon, but Penn State’s defensive schemes could test his composure. With Baldwin’s availability in doubt, the Nittany Lions may struggle to contain Shelstad’s offensive versatility.

3-Point Battle

Oregon’s depth from beyond the arc gives them a significant advantage. With six players capable of hitting from deep, the Ducks can stretch Penn State’s defense thin. In contrast, Penn State leans heavily on Hicks for 3-point production, limiting their offensive flexibility.

What’s at Stake

For Oregon, Sunday represents an opportunity to solidify their momentum and improve their standing in a competitive Big Ten. A win would extend their win streak to three and further validate their post-Illinois adjustments.

For Penn State, this game is a chance to regroup after back-to-back losses and reestablish themselves in the conference race. A victory would not only halt their skid but also provide a much-needed confidence boost heading into the second half of the season.

Explore the Latest Odds and Expert Predictions for the John Wooden Award

Prediction

If Baldwin and Johnson remain sidelined, Penn State’s path to victory becomes significantly narrower. Oregon’s balance on offense and ability to execute late in games should give the Ducks the upper hand.

Final Score Prediction: Oregon 78, Penn State 67