Lamar Stevens To Return To Penn State

The Penn State Nittany Lions got some exciting news earlier this week as star forward Lamar Stevens announced that he would be foregoing the 2019 NBA Draft and returning to school for his senior season. It wasn’t necessarily surprising news, but it was certain welcome news for Nittany Lion fans.

Stevens said the following in a program release:

”I started on this journey with Coach Chambers four years ago and my parents always told me to finish what you start,” said Penn State rising senior Lamar Stevens. “Words can’t express how excited I am to attack this year with my coach and my brothers right beside me. I’m ready to take Penn State to new heights.”

Over the last three seasons, Stevens has averaged an impressive 16 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. Those numbers peaked last season at 19.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. All told, Stevens has started 104 games for the Nittany Lions in three seasons.

What really stands out about Stevens is his endurance and growth on the court. He played 91.1 percent of Penn State’s minutes last season and was a huge part in the team’s 6-2 finish to the regular season, including home wins over Michigan, Maryland, and Nebraska. Stevens also played a key part in Penn State’s route to the NIT title in 2018.

Penn State won’t be a favorite to win the Big Ten next season, even with Stevens back in the fold, but his return should give the program another shot at the postseason. Pat Chambers will hope to make his first NCAA Tournament with the Nittany Lions next season in large part because of Stevens’ return.