STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (Interstat) — The Penn State Nittany Lions look to rebound from a lopsided loss and close their non-conference schedule on a high note when they host the North Carolina Central Eagles on Monday afternoon at Bryce Jordan Center. Penn State (8-4) enters the contest reeling after a 46-80 defeat to Pittsburgh on Dec. 21, a game in which the Nittany Lions shot just 27.9% from the field. Despite the team’s struggles, guard Freddie Dilione V continued his strong individual play, scoring 23 points. Dilione has been a consistent offensive force, averaging over 20 points per game in his last three outings, including 23 points in a narrow 72-76 loss to Michigan State on Dec. 13. North Carolina Central (4-10) seeks to build momentum after a near-upset of Longwood on Dec. 20, falling 72-74. The Eagles are led by forward Khouri Carvey, who posted a double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds in that contest. Carvey has been a bright spot, averaging 12 points over his last five games. However, the Eagles have faced challenges against high-major opponents this season, including losses to Kentucky, North Carolina and Dayton by an average of 38 points. This matchup presents a stark contrast in trajectories. Penn State aims to stabilize before a daunting Big Ten Conference slate that begins next week with games against Illinois and Michigan. The Nittany Lions have been strong at home this season, boasting a 6-2 record in State College. For North Carolina Central, the game is a final tune-up before Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference play begins on Jan. 3. The Eagles will need to find scoring beyond Carvey and guard Gage Lattimore, who had 22 points against Longwood, to challenge a Penn State defense that will be eager to atone for its last performance. Tip-off is set for Monday, Dec. 29, at Bryce Jordan Center.