Penn State survives, will play for NIT title

◊ I guess Penn State just wanted to make things interesting down the stretch. If so, the Lions succeeded, as Notre Dame was able to close a one-time 19-point deficit to four points with only a few minutes left.

But, in true Penn State style, the Lions didn't roll over and die under the pressure. Jamelle Cornley, Talor Battle and Andrew Jones weren't going to let that happen; not this time.

I will admit that I was terrified when Notre Dame went on its run midway through the second half. It felt like all the shots the Irish missed through the first 30 minutes, all of a sudden fell with ease, particularly from behind the arch.

Penn State got a bit sloppy, which directly led to Notre Dame's surge. I think it all came to a head once Cornley got chippy with the Irish players, but fortunately for him and his team, he calmed down and turned that attitude back into production on the court.

Not enough can be said about Jones' performance tonight. The last announced stats for him were 14 points and 14 rebounds. It felt like he had a lot more rebounds. Penn State had a ton of second chances, while taking away crucial Irish opportunities.

Regardless of what happens against Baylor in the NIT final, it's been a great season for Penn State basketball. Let's hope there's one more win up the Lions' sleeves.

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