Penn State Basketball: How to lose a game

Dec 6, 2020; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions forward John Harrar (21) loses control of the ball between Seton Hall Pirates guard Jared Rhoden (left) and center Ike Obiagu (21) during the first half at the Bryce Jordan Center. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 6, 2020; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions forward John Harrar (21) loses control of the ball between Seton Hall Pirates guard Jared Rhoden (left) and center Ike Obiagu (21) during the first half at the Bryce Jordan Center. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /
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Penn State Basketball
Penn State Nittany Lions guard Myreon Jones (Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports) /

The shot clock is [or at least should be] your friend …

Penn State led 45-31 after a Seth Lundy three pointer with 53 seconds remaining.  The Nittany Lions forced a Seton Hall turnover with 30 seconds left in the half, thanks to a Myreon Jones steal.

In college basketball, the shot clock is 30 seconds.  By simply holding the ball for the last shot, Penn State could guarantee a 14 point halftime lead even if they didn’t score.

Instead, the Lions tried to force the ball up the floor quickly, and John Harrar had a layup attempt blocked.  Seton Hall came down the floor, got fouled and made the bucket (and the free throw), cutting the lead to 11.

Throughout the first half, the Pirates looked tired but sloppy game management gave the Pirates a jolt of energy into the half.  Now, it would be vital for Penn State to start the second half strong to make up for this mistake.