Penn State Basketball dealing with COVID-19 issues, Saturday’s game canceled

Penn State Basketball has had individuals test positive for COVID-19 within the program, leading to the Nittany Lions being forced to cancel Saturday’s game

Penn State Basketball announced their game this Saturday at VCU has been canceled due to positive COVID-19 results within the Nittany Lion basketball program.

Penn State went further in stating the game will not be rescheduled.

While it’s not clear how many positive tests occurred, the initial tweet did speak to a plurality.  Penn State has not commented on individual team’s vaccination rates and we do not know whether those that tested positive were vaccinated or boosted.

Sandy Barbour stated:

"“The health and safety of our student-athletes, coaches, staff and the broader community are of the utmost imporance.  Therefore, as part of the protocols established by the Big Ten Conference and Penn State Athletics medical staff, and in consultation with University, local and national officials and guidelines, individuals with a positive test have been put into isolation.”"

Saturday’s game at VCU was the last chance for the Lions to get a decent non-conference win on their resume as the remaining games (Quinnipiac and Delaware State) will do little to move the needle.  This cancellation also means a long absence from the court.  December 11th (loss at Michigan State) was their last game and they won’t play again until the 22nd.

Given the University’s vaccination mandate for all employees, it’s most likely the positive tests came from players.   While it’s unlikely we’ll actually know who tested positive and anyone’s individual vaccination status, VBR will continue to update this story as more information arises.