With Penn State’s postseason hopes slipping away after a brutal 92-67 loss to USC, there’s a bold move the Nittany Lions should make: give their freshmen more playing time and start preparing for a stronger future. After suffering their 10th loss in the last 11 games, Penn State’s current season has essentially hit the brakes, and it’s time for coach Mike Rhoades to turn to the future.
Freshman guard Dominick Stewart is already showing he’s got the goods, delivering a career-high 13 points in just 19 minutes against USC. With his performance on the rise, it’s clear Stewart could make a bigger impact with more consistent minutes, helping him develop into a crucial piece for next season. “He’s very coachable, plays hard, and his approach is getting better and better,” Rhoades said. If Stewart keeps getting around 20 minutes a game, his potential will skyrocket as the season wraps up.
But Stewart isn’t the only freshman to keep an eye on. Guard Jahvin Carter, who’s been backing up fifth-year Ace Baldwin, has flashed real potential. Despite limited minutes, Carter stepped up when Baldwin went down with an injury, and he’s proving he can handle the responsibility. A few more minutes now could make all the difference when Carter steps into a potential starting role next season.
And let’s not forget about Miles Goodman. With some experience under his belt, Goodman could be ready to play a more significant role. While the forward position isn’t as urgent for Penn State’s future, giving him a few more minutes would be a smart move.
While the veterans have worked hard to earn their minutes, the season is no longer about just winning—it’s about building for 2025 and beyond. Shifting focus to develop the freshmen and prepare them for next year will not only make Penn State stronger but also set them up for success when the stakes are higher. Now’s the time to look ahead and make those crucial adjustments!
