PSU upsets Rutgers, wins first big game:
“In its first big test of the year, the Penn State men’s basketball team stepped up to the challenge with an impressive 83-80 road victory over Rutgers (2-1) at the Louis Brown Athletic Center in New Jersey.
“The Nittany Lions (4-2) were able to hold on to a slim lead throughout the second half and hit crucial free throws in the final minutes to ensure the victory. Both freshman Geary Claxton and junior transfer Travis Parker took advantage of their opportunities when the Lions needed it most, hitting 5-8 from the foul line in the final 30 seconds.
” ‘I think this is a very important win for us,’ Penn State coach Ed DeChellis said after the game on the Penn State radio network. ‘It gave our players a great feel for what it’s like to win and win on the road, and I’m very, very proud of them. The effort that they put here this evening was just outstanding.’
“The Scarlet Knights were 2-0 heading into the game and coming off a 20-13 record and a NIT Championship game appearance last season.”