Mike Rhoades provided an unfortunate update for Penn State following the team’s latest contest against Michigan, losing 74-72, confirming that one of the teams key pieces will miss time.
Freshman guard Kayden Mingo is set to be sidelined, and while the timetable remains unclear, Rhoades said the injury will not be short-term.
“He’ll be out for a little bit,” Rhoades said, per the York Daily Record’s Mason Smith.
Mingo has been one of the most impactful players on the roster this season, especially when it comes to what he’s done on the defensive side of the basketball.
Even as a freshman, he’s carved out a role that goes beyond the box score, often changing games with his ability. In terms of a box score, he’s also averaging a team high in points, steals, and assists. Mingo is averaging 14.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists.
Losing him creates a big challenge for a team already struggling in and out of the Big Ten.
Rhoades didn’t specify the problem of the injury or provide a firm return date, which suggests the staff is taking a cautious approach. He added that it’s Penn State policy not to talk injury.
Still, there’s no denying the issue here. Penn State now has to adjust rotations, change minutes, and find new ways to replicate Mingo’s presence. That’s not an easy task, especially given how wel he fits in Rhoades’ system.
For Mingo, this has to be frustrating. He’s already established himself as a massive piece for the future of the program, and was putting himself in a position to get national recognition on the highest stage.
For Penn State, it’s another sign of how bad things might get. The schedule won’t slow down, as the Big Ten doesn’t offer any easy games.
While Penn State played well in its first game without him, it’s tough to ignore what’s to come. Perhaps the program can figure things out, but I’m starting to thin it’ll get uglier before it gets any better, especially without Mingo.
In a season that’s been tough to watch, he’s been the one bright spot.