Penn State's Season Challenges: Mirtič Out, Mingo Shines
Penn State's basketball season took a hit with the announcement that freshman forward Tibor Mirtič won't be returning to the court this year. Coach Mike Rhoades confirmed on Thursday that Mirtič, who hails from Slovenia, has been sidelined since early January due to multiple injuries.
Mirtič showed promise in his 15 appearances, averaging 3.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 0.7 assists in just over 14 minutes per game. He was shooting an impressive 53.2% from the field.
Unfortunately, his first start against No. 2 Michigan on January 6 resulted in a knee injury, and a subsequent shoulder injury during practice has kept him out of action.
His absence has shifted the dynamics of Penn State's lineup, with senior Josh Reed and freshman Ivan Jurić stepping up in the front court. Freshman Justin Houser has also seen increased playing time, while junior Saša Ciani provides additional depth.
Mingo Unmasked: A Fresh Start
On a brighter note, Penn State guard Kayden Mingo is set to practice without his protective mask for the first time in over a month. After suffering a broken nose that required surgery, Mingo only missed three games and quickly returned to the lineup, becoming one of the team's standout players.
Mingo has been a key contributor, averaging 13.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 2.2 steals per game over 25 starts. The removal of the mask is expected to enhance his vision and comfort on the court. Mingo expressed relief, saying, "It'll probably make me feel a little more free being able to see everything out there and just back to normal."
Defensive Excellence: Mingo's Steal Streak
Mingo is on track to lead the Big Ten in steals, following the legacy of former Penn State guard Ace Baldwin. With 2.2 steals per game, Mingo is a defensive force, drawing comparisons to Baldwin, a two-time Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.
Coach Rhoades highlighted the similarities between Mingo and Baldwin, noting their instinctive play and ability to disrupt opponents. Mingo's quick hands and long arms have made him a formidable defender, and he matched Baldwin's program record with eight steals in a game against Sacred Heart.
Looking Ahead: Roster Uncertainty
As the season winds down, Penn State faces potential roster changes. Coach Rhoades is preparing for the offseason with an open mind, acknowledging the fluid nature of college athletics. With the regular season concluding on March 8 and the Big Ten Tournament soon after, decisions loom on the horizon.
Rhoades emphasizes the importance of communication with his players, fostering an environment of transparency and trust. "To me, it's all about relationships so you can have real conversations," he said. The upcoming months will reveal the path forward for the Nittany Lions, but Rhoades remains ready to adapt to whatever comes next.