Penn State’s men’s basketball team is set to travel to the Bahamas for the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament during Thanksgiving week, joining a field that includes Memphis, Mississippi State and Wake Forest. The games will be held at the Imperial Arena at Atlantis Paradise Island from November 25 through 27, offering the Nittany Lions a chance to test themselves against strong competition in a neutral setting.
A Historic Return to the Bahamas
This marks the second time the program has taken part in the Bahamas under head coach Mike Rhoades, who previously led the team on a preseason trip to the islands in August 2023. Historically, Penn State holds a modest edge against its group opponents, with a 2‑3 record versus Memphis, a 1‑1 split with Mississippi State and a 2‑1 advantage over Wake Forest.
Rhoades has used the offseason to reshape the roster, adding nine newcomers. Among them are transfers Brant Byers, a former Miami (Ohio) standout, and Roberts Blums, who earned a reputation as a sparkplug at Davidson. Both players are expected to contribute immediately, joining returning veterans Ivan Jurić, Reggie Grodin and Chris Lotito.
New Faces and Future Additions
The coaching staff also anticipates the arrival of two additional European prospects, Roko Prkačin and François Wibaut, whose signings remain pending. The team will open its exhibition schedule with a matchup against St. Bonaventure in October, a game that will provide an early glimpse of the new‑look lineup.
Beyond the tournament, the Nittany Lions are preparing for a season that includes a challenging Big Ten slate, having finished 12‑20 overall a year ago after a 3‑17 conference record. Coach Rhoades, now in his fourth season, hopes the Bahamas experience will help the team build chemistry and climb the conference standings.