On The Verge Of Taking the Next Step...Again

Penn State's history in Men's basketball is well documented.  A program that at times has seen some success, has had some terrific young men represent the program, but a program that has seemingly never been able to get over the hump.  Always seemingly 2 or 3 players away from becoming a true contender on the national scene.

I believe that their time as a mid level program is coming to a close and that we are about to ascend to the point where they will begin to contend and win time in and time out against other top flight programs across the Country.

I believe that Patrick Chambers has established a culture that he can replicate and win with.  His players focused on teamwork, effort, and sacrifice to create a winning culture.

When I watch Penn State basketball these days, I am struck by the athleticism and skill that is on the floor most nights.  Tony Carr is a legitimate NBA prospect right now, and if he develops, could even be a top 10 pick down the road.  Lamar Stevens, Mike Watkins, and Josh Reaves have great athleticism and size to defend multiple positions as well as provide impact around the rim.  Wheeler comes off the bench and creates havoc defensively and provides ball handling while giving Carr a breather.

But the two people who have put us over the top have been Shep Garner and Julian Moore.  Their roles are seemingly minor, but to me, when those two play well, the rest of the team's energy seems to sky rocket.

In the game against Mississippi State, Shep's 3-point barrage deflated the opposition and seemed to keep his teammates engaged in such a way to maintain everyone's focus and get the team's best.  During a game against Ohio State at home, Julian Moore came in to relieve the highly regarded Watkins and during one possession blocked two shots.  The crowd roared with approval and the atmosphere turned electric.

Basketball can easily become a sport about the few, about individuals, and less about the team.  Certainly individual talent can shine brightly on this stage.  But the best teams always seem to have players that excel even with limited rolls.  Penn State has shown a willingness to accept those roles and play them as well as they possibly can.

If these Nittany Lions come out against Utah tonight and play as well as they have for the past two months, I feel pretty confident in saying, not only that they'll win, but there is a strong chance that even without Tony Carr, the habits they've built and continue to build will help turn them into a NCAA tournament team come next year.

This Penn State team has been fun to watch for their determination, for their skill and athleticism, but most of all for how they appear to be a true team.  One that relies on themselves as well as others.  Tonight, win or lose, Penn State fans should feel good about how those kids have played the game and how the coaches have grown the program and culture.