Penn State University has unveiled its non‑conference basketball slate for the upcoming season, a schedule that deliberately sidesteps any overlap with the Nittany Lions’ football commitments.
The lineup features a blend of mid‑major programs and power‑conference rivals, highlighted by a home matchup against Lafayette on December 19 and a neutral‑site contest against Pittsburgh at the Palestra in Philadelphia on November 8. The team will also travel to the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament in the Bahamas, where it will meet Wake Forest, Memphis and Mississippi State.
Coach Mike Rhoades emphasized the importance of local exposure, noting that a game at the Giant Center in Hershey will give Pennsylvania fans another chance to watch the team, even though the venue has historically been challenging, as evidenced by last year’s 80‑46 loss to Pitt.
Ticket packages are being explored that could allow supporters to attend both a football game and a basketball game if the football team secures a spot in the College Football Playoff, aiming to maximize attendance despite the logistical hurdle of weeknight contests.
The schedule also reflects a strategic approach to strength of schedule, with eight opponents ranked outside the top 200 in KenPom’s 2025‑26 rankings, including a notable mid‑major opponent, Saint Joseph’s, currently positioned at No. 106.
Adding to the narrative, former Penn State standout Dan Earl, now head coach of Chattanooga, will bring his squad to the Bryce Jordan Center on November 5, bringing a personal connection to the program after guiding the Mocs to the 2025 NIT Championship.