Penn State Eliminated from Big Ten Tournament After Loss to Maryland

Penn State's men's basketball team has been eliminated from contention for the Big Ten Tournament after a close 68-64 loss to Maryland on Senior Day, marking the first time since the tournament's inception in 1998 that the Nittany Lions will not participate. This season has been particularly disappointing, with the team suffering nine losses by six points or fewer, including the latest defeat where they missed critical shots in the final moments. Coach Mike Rhoades expressed disappointment but emphasized the need to respond and keep moving forward. The Nittany Lions' overall record stands at 15-15, and they sit at the bottom of the conference with just one game left against Wisconsin. Despite earlier hopes for an NCAA Tournament bid, the team's performance has fallen short of expectations, leading to a somber conclusion to the season filled with missed opportunities. Athletic Director Pat Kraft remains supportive of Rhoades despite the team's struggles, indicating a desire to improve moving forward.