UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa - From an early age, Penn State men's basketball newcomer Greg Lee was inspired by the hardworking individuals that surrounded him.
"Seeing both my grandfather's work ethic at a young age really inspired me to become the player I am today, '' Lee said. "Every day they would wake up and go to work. They taught me that real winners never quit and that you don't know how far you can push yourself."
That dedication has translated to the basketball court and taken Lee to Penn State, where he will finish his last year of playing eligibility. Lee played three previous seasons at Cal State Bakersfield and transferred to Western Michigan last season where he averaged 13 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. The forward led the Broncos last year in rebounds and rebounds per game and had 14 double-digit scoring performances. At 6-foot-9, 217-pounds, Lee is ready to bring his skills to Penn State.
"I'm a very hard worker and strive to do whatever the team needs at a certain point in time," he said. "I can rebound and know how to communicate with my teammates."
Lee's fellow teammates including veteran players Seth Lundy and John Harrar have played a huge role in his transition to the university.
"I am playing the same game at a different level now and it is extremely competitive," said Lee. "John in particular has really helped with my transition into the team and understanding the university as a whole. We both have the same work ethic in athletics and academics which really pushes me to do better."
The new coaching staff has also influenced Lee's new game mindset on the court.
"We have an absolutely great coaching staff," Lee added on the group led by first-year head coach Micah Shrewsberry. "I get to learn the playing mindset of each coach as they all come from different backgrounds and have incredible experience in the game.The best thing that I have personally learned from Coach Shrewsberry so far is to simply be yourself, work hard, and don't be afraid to make mistakes."
With a total of eight new players including transfers Jalen Pickett, Jaheam Cornwall, and Jevonnie Scott, Penn State is looking at almost a completely new roster. With this, comes the rebuilding of team culture and group goals.
"Our group of guys are really just focused on showing up every day and working hard," said Lee. "We have good days and bad days, but each and every player gives it 100 percent when they are on the court. I am very confident that everything will work out when it's time."
Lee, who was an All-MAC honorable mention player in 2020-21, is ready for both the challenges and excitements that comes with playing in the Big Ten. He knows that it is a completely different conference from what he is used to playing in, however he is looking forward to the experience and developing as a player.
"We need to play intensely to win the Big Ten title and the tournaments," said Lee. "I am excited to play in the pool of players that are in the conference and learn from their playing styles. I'm hoping that our team can prove a point in how far we can go and what we can overcome."
In addition to hopes for the team, Lee is working towards his dream goal of playing in the NBA.
"I need to prove to people that this is my time, and I can do what it takes to succeed," said Lee. "Playing basketball in the NBA will always be my dream."
Lee will take another step towards achieving that goal this season, when he and the Nittany Lions open their season November 10 at home against Youngstown State.
