The Nittany Lions gave everything they had but couldn’t get past No. 6 Michigan for a second time this season falling 83-66 in the first round of the Big Ten tournament Thursday.
What Happened: Penn State got off to a hot 14-3 start but the Wolverines reminded everyone quickly that March was not a time to take lightly. Michigan only took a two-point 35-33 lead in to the half but slowly opened up the game in the second half. Penn State played well, getting a double-double from Ross Travis and 20 points from DJ Newbill. In the end the Wolverines weren’t going to get tripped up by Penn State again despite the Nittany Lions feisty nature
Player of the Game: Trey Burke was effective for Michigan, scoring 21 points while collecting three blocks. The Big Ten player of the year looked more comfortable the third time around the likes of Newbill and Jermaine Marshall.
Turning Point: Jermaine Marshall missed a lay-up with 11:49 to go in the game with Penn State down 56-47. Michigan responded with a 5-0 run that opened the game up to double digits.
Stat of The Game: Michigan held a 28-15 advantage in second-chance points.
What It Means: Penn State’s season comes to a close, but a promising final half dozen games gives fans hope for a stronger 2013-14 campaign.
