Penn State Lady Lions vs Pennsylvania Quakers Picks and Predictions December 29th 2024

Penn State Looks to Control Offensive Glass vs. Penn

Penn State aims to close out the year on a high note as it hosts Penn on Sunday afternoon in University Park, Pa. The Nittany Lions (10-2) have displayed strong form this season, including a signature win over then-No. 8 Purdue, and they look to use their rebounding prowess to maintain their momentum against the Quakers (4-8).

Penn State’s Dominance on the Boards

The Nittany Lions are riding high after a 75-64 victory over Drexel last weekend, fueled by Yanic Konan Niederhauser’s 18 points and Puff Johnson’s key contributions on the offensive glass. Penn State grabbed an impressive 19 offensive rebounds in that game, converting them into critical second-chance points.

“Offensive rebounds are extra possessions,” said Penn State coach Mike Rhoades. “That gets us to where we want to go. More possessions mean a better chance to win.”

Konan Niederhauser and Ace Baldwin Jr. lead the Nittany Lions’ balanced attack. Baldwin, averaging 14.2 points and 8.5 assists per game, ranks among the nation’s best distributors, while Niederhauser chips in 13.0 points per game and has shot at least 50 percent from the field in all but one contest this season.

The team’s ability to combine inside dominance with sharpshooting from beyond the arc presents a challenging matchup for opponents.

Penn’s Defensive Challenges

The Quakers, on the other hand, are coming off a tough 85-53 loss to George Mason in which they allowed their opponent to shoot 50 percent from the field. Penn has struggled defensively all season, allowing at least 80 points in five games.

“Our defense has to be more consistent,” said Penn coach Steve Donahue. “Keeping guys in front and limiting them to one shot are the basics we need to focus on.”

Offensively, Penn also struggled mightily against George Mason, shooting just 32.2 percent from the floor while committing 15 turnovers. For the Quakers to stay competitive against Penn State, they will need significant improvements on both ends of the court.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Rebounding Battle: Penn State’s dominance on the offensive glass, led by players like Johnson and Konan Niederhauser, could spell trouble for a Penn team that has struggled to limit second-chance opportunities.
2. Perimeter Play: Penn State’s strong three-point shooting will test Penn’s perimeter defense, which has been inconsistent this season.
3. Ace Baldwin vs. Penn’s Backcourt: Baldwin’s ability to control the tempo and create opportunities for his teammates could be the deciding factor.

Check out the latest John Wooden Award Odds & Predictions for detailed analysis and updates.

Game Outlook

Penn will need to find answers on defense and significantly reduce turnovers to keep pace with Penn State’s high-octane offense. Meanwhile, the Nittany Lions will look to impose their will on the boards and continue their balanced scoring attack.

Penn State holds a 4-2 edge in the all-time series and is heavily favored to extend that margin as they aim to close their nonconference slate with a victory.