Expectations were high for Jess Brungo coming into this season.

For many, she was seen as a possible scoring partner for Kelly Mazzante, creating a feared offensive tandem for the next three seasons.

However, as of late, Brungo has not been putting up prodigious numbers, failing to score in double figures since the Michigan game Jan. 13 and averaging 6.9 points per game for the season.

Still, Penn State women's basketball coach Rene Portland is not upset with the sophomore guard, because over the course of the season Brungo has had to learn the forward position as well.

"The big thing is Jess is playing two positions for us and I don't know how many players could do that," Portland said at a press conference yesterday. "I don't know how many kids could know our playbook as a guard and then again as a post player."

What pleases Portland most is Brungo's work to in other areas of the floor besides when her jump shot is off. She complimented Brungo's defensive effort, such as the steals she forced in Sunday's win over Wisconsin.

Portland thinks all Brungo, who she calls her most versatile player, needs is a little more faith in her shot, something the coaching staff is working on.

"As soon as we got the shot fixed her confidence will come back," Portland said.

The coach also said that with another two years of seasoning, Brungo should be a premier prospect for the WNBA.

"They should be dying for a kid like her, with her size and the way she plays guard."

Portland closing in on 500

After 21 seasons directing the Lady Lions, Portland is only two victories shy of her 500th victory at Penn State, something she could accomplish as early as this Sunday against Ohio State.

While she admits the milestone would be a great honor for her and the program, Portland says her focus has been finishing the season strong rather than looking back at the past.

"This is a really important season to us as a program as we rebuild with what we have," Portland said. "We have seniors that are going to leave us. . .but we're young and it would be terrific if this team could finish like we want to finish."

Still, Portland recognizes the significance of 500 wins.

"I'm very grateful to be at Penn State this long, to be at a program where we can do great things for women and basketball in general," Portland said.

Still standing

Despite playing all 40 minutes in the Wisconsin game, forward Rashana Barnes said her oft-ailing knees were not of concern.

"They're fine," Barnes said. "I had my day off yesterday."

Barnes will also get another day off today before Thursday's showdown at Northwestern.