By Phil Axelrod, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
A major misfortune midway through last season might turn out to be the catalyst for the good fortunes Penn State is expecting in the 2008-09 men’s basketball season.
When senior star Geary Claxton had a season-ending knee injury, coach Ed DeChellis was forced to reconfigure his lineup and give extended minutes to some players who otherwise would have had limited roles.
“It was an opportunity for guys that were able to step up and insert themselves into the offense and defense and make some basketball plays,” DeChellis said. “I think guys really grew up and had to grow up quickly.”
All of those players are back from a 15-16 team that knocked off No. 7 Michigan State, 85-76, and No. 17 Indiana, 68-64, in overtime: Jamelle Cornley (12.1 ppg, 6.0 rpg), Talor Battle (10.2 ppg, team-high 40 steals). Danny Morrissey (7.6 ppg), Stanley Pringle (6.9 ppg) and David Jackson (5.8 ppg).
The Nittany Lions also can expect significant contributions from 6-foot-5 freshmen Chris Babb and Cammeron Woodyard.
“I think it was important our players made big shots and gained some confidence as the year went on,” said DeChellis, who is entering his sixth season as head coach.
“I think we can compete every night. We can beat anyone in the country. I don’t know if I could have said that six years ago, there’s no way.”