Penn State adds Dayton charity exhibition to 2025-26 schedule

The Penn State men’s basketball schedule for the 2025–26 season continues to take shape. On Thursday morning, the program announced an early addition to its non-conference slate.

Head coach Mike Rhoades and the Nittany Lions will travel to Dayton to face the Flyers on Sunday, Oct. 19, in a charity exhibition game. Penn State has participated in similar events each of the past two seasons – traveling to play Duquesne in Rhoades’ first year, and last fall taking on Lafayette at Lebanon Valley College, his alma mater.

This year’s exhibition will support adolescent and young adult mental health and suicide prevention. Dayton head coach Anthony Grant and his wife, Chris, have been personally affected by the issue, having lost their daughter, Jayda, in 2022 at the age of 20.

“We are excited to partner with the University of Dayton, Coach Grant and CareSource to support such an important cause,” said Rhoades. “Raising awareness, generating conversation and increasing access to mental health services across our country is of the utmost importance.

“I am honored to share the floor once again with Coach Grant who I have the greatest respect for. Coach Grant’s willingness to share his family’s story to turn their pain into purpose and help others is inspirational and we are appreciative to be a part of this event.”

The event will be held in partnership with CareSource, with all ticket proceeds benefiting Jay’s Light – the foundation established by the Grants – as well as the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation and the University of Dayton’s student mental health initiatives.

From the release:

“Jay’s Light honors Jayda Grant and will be used to champion adolescent and young adult mental health and suicide prevention. The fund will support local community organizations and initiatives that align with the mission of supporting adolescent and young adult mental health.”

The news follows last week’s announcement that Penn State will face Pittsburgh in December as part of its non-conference schedule. That matchup is set for Dec. 21 at the Giant Center in Hershey, Pa.

Where things stand

Guards Freddie Dilione, Dominick Stewart, Kayden Mingo, Reggie Grodin, Melih Tunca
Wings Eli Rice, Mason Blackwood, Josh Reed, Chris Lotito
Bigs Justin Hauser, Ivan Juric, Tibor Mirtic, Saša Ciani

Penn State scholarship breakdown by class

Fifth year (0): 
Fourth year (1): Josh Reed
Third year (3): Freddie Dilione, Eli Rice, Saša Ciani
Second year (1): Dominick Stewart
First year (8): Justin Hauser, Mason Blackwood, Kayden Mingo, Ivan Juric, Reggie Grodin, Melih Tunca, Chris Lotito, Tibor Mirtic

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