A’lahn Sumler scores 26 points as Pitt beats Penn State 82-76 at the Palestra

Philadelphia (AP) — A'lahn Sumler delivered a stellar performance, scoring 26 points and hitting clutch free throws as Pittsburgh edged out Penn State 82-76 in the 150th matchup between the fierce in-state rivals at the historic Palestra. Sumler's shooting prowess was on full display, sinking 9 of his 16 field goal attempts. The Panthers have claimed the series 76-74 with two victories in a row.

Pittsburgh's defense was solid, as Baye Ndongo fouled out with 13 points, eight rebounds, and four assists. Jonathan Powell contributed 13 points and a career-high five steals, despite playing his first game since the start of the season. Dasonte Bowen chipped in with 17 points, while Ivan Juric added 16 points and 13 rebounds for Penn State. Roko Prkacin and Josh Reed, both scoring 11 points and 7 rebounds each, also had notable outings for the Nittany Lions.

The game marked the second of a doubleheader celebrating the Palestra's centennial anniversary. The Panthers began their night with a 14-3 run, taking a 42-38 lead. Despite struggling from the field in the final five minutes of the first half, going 1 for 8, Pittsburgh closed the gap with a 7-1 run, leading 78-76. However, Penn State held on for the win, maintaining their 2-1 lead in the series.