Newbill transfers to Penn State

D.J. Newbill is a Nittany Lion.

The 6-foot-4 sophomore point guard transferred from Southern Mississippi to Penn State on Friday. The North Philadelphia native was released from his Golden Eagles scholarship four days earlier. He signed his scholarship papers to play for the Nittany Lions on Friday while visiting the State College campus.

"I chose Penn State because of family atmosphere, academics and the Big Ten Conference, man. A lot of exposure," Newbill said.

According to NCAA rules, he will have to sit out next season before having three seasons of eligibility. However, the Strawberry Mansion High product will be allowed to practice with Penn State next season.

Newbill averaged 9 points, 6 rebounds and 1.6 assists en route to being named to the Conference USA all-freshman team.

"Penn State is not too far," said Newbill, who was didn't like being far away from home. "I can come and get away when I want to focus on me."

- Keith Pompey