No doubt having Claxton would have probably added at least three wins to our total and we would be on the way to the NIT. So that was bad for this year. But looking to next year, we're going to be much better off because these players had half a season to adjust to life without him. Battle was forced to step up into a leadership role. Jeff Brooks got more minutes and looked really good the last two games. He could emerge as a 15 ppg scoring threat next year. He has the physical tools, he just lacks the strength and confidence. Nothing a good off season in the weight room and practice gym can't cure.

You'll see a much better team next year. Instead of all of these freshmen running around thinking "Where am I supposed to go? Where am I supposed to stand?" they'll just be playing and reacting to what the other team is doing. They'll be much better.

I really hope fugimaster is right, and that losing a game this way will cause the team to focus even more in the offseason into next year.  Never take a play off on defense.  And stop hoisting up panicked threes with a guy in your face and 31 seconds on the shot clock.  I know our threes have bailed us out in many situations, but not every situation calls for a three-ball.  While there should've been an over-the-back called against Illinois on their next-to-last possession (the one that game them the inbounds with 7 sec left), Penn State wouldn't have even been in that position had they had better shot selection throughout the game.

That being said, count me optimistic for next year's squad.