Basketball Mike Rhoades - Local Media Press Conference

[Dylan Callaghan-Croley]

Some early notes ...

- Excited to face Robert Morris on Friday. Everyone is still getting familiar with each other, working hard, practicing hard, etc. But there is still work to do.

- Expect Penn State to keep the ball moving this year, having a "hot ball" makes it tougher for opponents. Expect a strong pace and for the ball to be moving.

- Ace Baldwin brings a "we should win every game" mentality. Continues to get better and better in each year of his career including this year.

 

[Dylan Callaghan-Croley]

- Notes he had a pre-existing relationship with Puff Johnson's family after recruiting his brother Cam during his time with Rice. That relationship paid off this offseason.

- When it came to those returning - there wasn't much of a pitch. to keep them around. There were going to be plenty of opportunities for playing time and to make an impact.

 

[Dylan Callaghan-Croley]

Rhoades has gotten to see his mom over the last few months than he has since he entered the coaching business. Also notes there's a lot more people from Schuylkill County making the trip up, which may or may not be a great thing for the area, he says jokingly. (As a Schuylkill County native, I also agree).

 

[Dylan Callaghan-Croley]

Rhoades also noted that those worried about him using Penn State as a stepping stone program, the contract shows that he wants to be at Penn State for a long time.

 

[Dylan Callaghan-Croley]

Rhoades wanted Penn State to thick outside the box when it comes to scheduling. Some of the non-conference schedule was already set. Expects Penn State in the future to play in different venues over the next few years - the Nittany Lions are set to play at Rec Hall, the Palestra, and Madison Square Garden this season.

 

[Dylan Callaghan-Croley]

Rhoades doesn't expect Kanye Clary to have a problem with playing to tempo, he's "naturally fast" and quick with the ball in his hands.