Marlon Smith -- G
The sophomore guard has quickly become one of the leaders on the court for the Lions. In his first season, Smith became the first Penn State player ever to make the Big Ten All-Freshman team. He was also the first freshman to be named team MVP, averaging 13.4 points per game. Along with fellow sophomore Ben Luber, Smith had to learn on the fly, averaging 36 minutes per game. Smith said he spent much of the offseason resting his legs after logging so much time last season. However, he did find some time to play with the Big Ten Foreign Tour team in Europe this August, gaining some valuable experience for the upcoming season.
Ben Luber -- G
Luber has a knack for adaptation as he matched his Philadelphia Inquirer's Rookie of the Year status in high school with Freshman All-America Honorable Mention accolades last season with the Lions. The sophomore point guard played an average of 39 minutes per game, finished sixth in the Big Ten in assists, 13th in steals and 10th in assists-to-turnovers ratio. Making an immediate impact, Luber served as the floor general, running the offense alongside Smith and a handful of upperclassmen. This year will be no different, except Luber will be surrounded by more speed and athleticism, allowing for a more up-tempo scheme.
Geary Claxton -- G
Claxton is arguably the ace of DeChellis' first recruiting class, consisting of five talented freshmen. The 6-foot-5 guard will make an immediate impact on the squad as he proved in exhibition, showcasing a dunk in between grabbing a few offensive rebounds. Primarily a three-spot player, the freshman can drive, shoot and rebound. As a senior at Hill Regional Career High School, Claxton averaged 21.8 points, 14 rebounds and four blocks per game. Claxton's agility and versatility brings a whole other element to the veteran backcourt of Smith and Luber.
Aaron Johnson -- F
The inside game will rely heavily on Johnson as he is the Lions primary post player, waiting for a teammate to step up and join him down low. If DeChellis intends to utilize a three-guard lineup, as he did in the exhibition game, Johnson will have to handle the bulk of the rebounding duties, which is nothing new for the walk-on. He posted six double-doubles last season, and averaged 9.7 points and 6.5 rebounds per game. Seemingly the fan favorite on game day at the Bryce Jordan Center, Johnson will be the guy who shoulders the leadership role for this young team. The junior's competitive and aggressive nature, and recklessness on the boards makes him fun to watch.
Travis Parker -- F
Parker is a rare addition to the Penn State squad because he is a junior college transfer, spending the last two years at Missouri State-West Plains. The 6-foot-5, 242-pound forward looks to help out on the baseline. DeChellis said Parker could step right into the lineup because of his size and experience. Last year, Parker averaged 13.7 points and 5.6 rebounds per game, helping West Plains reach the Region 16 championship game. The Lions will need all the help they can get on the boards, and Parker hopes to fit into that equation.
Brandon Hassell -- F
Tall and very lanky, Hassell will have to get stronger in the weight room if he wishes to be a force on the inside. His long arms will allow him to disrupt entry passes. Hassell is very athletic and plays well above the rim.
Danny Morrissey -- G
The Zack Mills look-alike has a decent shot from the outside, but has the ability to get hot and be a game breaker. Think Kyle Korver. Morrissey has the ability to get a board or two. A prolific scorer in high school, he will be a spot player off of the Lions bench.
Mike Walker -- G
A two-time all-state selection, Walker seems destined to be Luber's backup. One of the first players to come off the bench, Walker is a solid ball handler and a prolific 3-point shooter. Walker and Morrissey can stretch a defense and make up for lack of an inside presence on the bench.
