**Ex-Penn State Coach Bruce Parkhill Reflects on Unlikely NCAA Tournament Upset of UCLA**
In a recent interview, former Penn State basketball coach Bruce Parkhill reminisced about the Nittany Lions’ remarkable victory over UCLA in the second round of the 1991 NCAA Tournament. This unexpected win not only stunned the college basketball world but also marked a significant milestone for Penn State’s basketball program.
Parkhill, who served as Penn State’s head coach from 1983 to 1995, led the team to a 25-7 record in the 1989-90 season, setting a school record for wins at that time. The pinnacle of his tenure came in 1991 when the Nittany Lions, seeded 10th, faced off against the heavily favored UCLA Bruins, a team with a storied history and multiple national championships.
In a game that defied expectations, Penn State secured a 74-69 victory over UCLA, advancing to the Sweet 16. This win was a testament to Parkhill’s coaching prowess and the resilience of his players. Reflecting on the upset, Parkhill remarked, “On any given night, anything can happen in college basketball.”
The 1991 upset remains a defining moment in Penn State basketball history, highlighting the program’s potential to compete with and defeat basketball powerhouses. Parkhill’s leadership during this period laid the foundation for future successes and elevated the profile of Penn State’s basketball program on the national stage.
For more insights into Bruce Parkhill’s coaching career and the 1991 NCAA Tournament upset, refer to the Penn Stater Magazine’s article, “The Best Play for Last.” citeturn
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