Big Ten Basketball: Updated early power rankings for 2022-23 season

PISCATAWAY, NJ - FEBRUARY 16: Head coach Brad Underwood of the Illinois Fighting Illini during the second half of a game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at Jersey Mike's Arena on February 16, 2022 in Piscataway, New Jersey. Rutgers defeated Illinois 70-59. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /

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Big Ten Basketball Micah Shrewsberry Penn State Nittany Lions (Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images) /

9. Penn State Nittany Lions

With so many quality big men in the Big Ten, it’s somewhat understandable that John Harrar fell under the radar. But his 10.6 ppg and 10.3 rpg of production will be sorely missed for Penn State as they look to build a roster that can contend for a top-half spot in the league.

To replace Harrar will be a combination of several newcomers. Freshmen forwards Demetrius Lilley and Kebba Njie will look for minutes in the rotation, while Denver stretch forward transfer Mikey Henn gives them a shooting lineup at the four-spot. And returning combo forward Seth Lundy can play at the four-spot as well.

The backcourt will be where the Nittany Lions either make it or break it next season. To replace double-digit scoring guard Sam Sessions is Bucknell transfer Andrew Funk, who averaged over 17 ppg last season and shot 36% from three-point range. 6’2 guard Camren Wynter comes from Drexel and is a 3-time All-CAA performer, coming off producing 15.8 ppg, 5.3 rpg, and 4.6 apg last season. With returning leading scorer and passer Jalen Pickett leading the way, Penn State could have the best overall backcourt in the conference next season.

That’s a big “if” regarding the newcomer guards can play a big role and the frontcourt is a major question mark at the moment. Penn State has the chance to move up the conference but right now with Pickett as the best player on paper, 9 is the right spot.

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