Penn State Basketball: Battle’s Big Night Powers Nittany Lions to 66-63 Win Over Minnesota

By Kevin Wesley

Talor Battle scored 28 points Thursday and the Nittany Lions got unlikely contributions from their bench to pull out a 66-63 win over Minnesota at the Bryce Jordan Center. The victory gives Penn State (14-11, 7-7 Big Ten) a vital win in its quest for an NCAA tournament berth.

The Lions led much of the game and built their lead to ten, 47-37, on a David Jackson three-pointer midway through the second half. But the Golden Gophers (17-9, 6-8) quickly closed the gap to ensure a tense, back-and-forth finish. Minnesota led by three, 60-57, with under two minutes to play, but a three by Battle and free throws by Battle and reserve guard Cam Woodyard in the final 22 seconds sealed the win.

It might not have been that close if not for early Penn State foul trouble. Big men Andrew Jones and Jeff Brooks each picked up two fouls in the game’s first ten minutes, forcing coach Ed DeChellis to rely on his bench for much of the half. Not surprisingly, the Lions were outrebounded 22-11 in the opening period, but the team’s defensive hustle and key baskets from backups Woodyard and Steve Kirkpatrick helped Penn State carry a 29-28 lead into the half.

Earlier coverage

• Penn State Basketball: Swagger Regained, Lions Head for the Home Stretch (Feb. 13, 2011)

• Penn State Basketball: Nittany Lions Make It Look Easy in 65-41 Win over Northwestern (Feb. 13, 2011)