July 28, 2020
Big Ten roundup: Penn State loses star to portal; Ohio State bolsters roster
By Ben Rosof
Lions lose last season's top scorer, Buckeyes add graduate transfer
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In surprising Big Ten news, Penn State guard Kamaria McDaniel has entered the transfer portal and intends to finish her NCAA eligibility elsewhere, The Next has learned from a source familiar with the situation.
The news comes as a significant blow to a rebuilding Nittany Lions program, as McDaniel averaged 19.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game in 2019-20. The junior was one of two double-figure scorers on last year’s roster but averaged over six more points per game than second-leading scorer Siyeh Frazier, who graduated after the season.
The move leaves the Lions in limbo — although they bring in five-star recruit Leilani Kapinus, they’ve lost their top two scorers from a team that went just 7-23 during Head Coach Carolyn Kieger’s first year at the helm. Penn State posted an abysmal 1-17 record in conference play, including four losses by over 33 points.
McDaniel, who was named First and Second Team All-Big Ten by media and coaches, respectively, will be highly coveted in the portal. The Inkster, Michigan native may opt to stay in the midwest and remain in the conference with nearby options such as Michigan and Michigan State, or elect to join a higher-profile program elsewhere.
Tanaya Beacham. (photo courtesy of Ohio State Athletics)
Ohio State adds grad transfer, Tanaya Beacham
The Buckeyes announced Tuesday that they’re adding graduate transfer, Tanaya Beacham, from the University of Toledo.
Beacham played in 95 games over her last three seasons after redshirting her freshman year. During the 2019-20 season, she increased her scoring average by nearly seven points per game from the year before. She averaged 10.8 points and 5.5 rebounds per game while also leading the team in field goal percentage at 58.3.
“Extremely excited to add Tanaya to the Buckeye family,” said Ohio State Head Coach Kevin McGuff in a release.“Her talent, athleticism, and experience will be a great addition to the program.”
Despite sitting out her first year with the Rockets, Beacham will have an immediate year of eligibility at Ohio State. The Youngstown, Ohio native will get to play one season for the Buckeyes and coach McGuff, who also welcome five-star guard Kateri Poole to Columbus this year.
