Penn State Lady Lions Showcase Dominant Defense in Exhibition Win Against California University of Pennsylvania
Penn State kicked off its 2025-2026 season with an exhibition game against California University of Pennsylvania. The Lady Lions displayed a strong defensive performance, limiting the Vulcans to 24 points in the first half and ultimately securing a dominant 114-52 victory. This game provided a glimpse of what fans can expect from Penn State this season.
One key takeaway from the exhibition game was Penn State's reliance on a man-to-man defense strategy. While effective initially, the team faced challenges when key player Gracie Merkle was substituted out, highlighting the need to strengthen defensive tactics or consider switching to a zone defense in certain situations to maintain success against tougher opponents.
Rebounding played a crucial role in Penn State's performance, with the team emphasizing aggressive boxing out to limit California's second-chance scoring opportunities. Players like Gracie Merkle and freshman Tea Cleante showcased their skills in this area, contributing to the team's defensive prowess and creating more scoring opportunities for the Lady Lions.
On the offensive end, Penn State excelled at drawing fouls by driving into the paint and attacking their opponents directly. Freshman Nyla McFadden stood out for her ability to penetrate the defense and draw fouls, leading to valuable points for the team. While three-point shooting was a factor, the team's focus on back cuts and quick layups proved to be effective in generating points.
Looking ahead, Penn State will face Bucknell on Nov. 3 at 5 p.m. to kick off their regular season competition. With a strong defensive foundation and effective offensive strategies, the Lady Lions are poised for an exciting season ahead.