Why is Penn State basketball playing a road game at small-school New Haven?

Why Penn State Basketball is Playing at New Haven

Mike Rhoades' team faces the New Haven Chargers on Saturday at 1 p.m. It’s unusual for a Big Ten basketball program to play a road game at a Northeast Conference school, yet this weekend Penn State will travel to West Haven, Connecticut, for the matchup.

The game will take place at the Hazell Center, which holds about 1,000 spectators, a stark contrast to Penn State’s Bryce Jordan Center that seats over 15,000. The unusual setting raises questions about the reasoning behind such a trip.

Reason for the Matchup

When asked about the decision, Penn State coach Mike Rhoades explained that the arrangement benefits both teams. New Haven agreed to travel to Happy Valley for multiple future nonconference games in exchange for hosting this one.

“Some people told me I’m crazy to do it. You’ve got to put yourself out there,” Rhoades said. “Ted (Hotaling) runs a great program. He’s a very good coach, and their move to Division I created a need for home games with return opportunities.”

Financial Considerations

Rhoades emphasized that scheduling strategically helps manage the team’s finances. Playing at New Haven gives Penn State multiple nonconference games for the cost of one.

“I’m not just a coach — I oversee the program and the budget,” Rhoades noted. “If we can find ways in scheduling to save money, make money, and still give our players meaningful opportunities, we have to consider it.”

Typically, power conference teams pay smaller schools substantial guarantees to play, so the deal with New Haven provides valuable budget flexibility.

Author’s Summary

Penn State’s road trip to New Haven serves both competitive and financial purposes, showcasing Coach Rhoades’ pragmatic approach to scheduling and program management.

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PennLive.com PennLive.com — 2025-11-09

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