Pitt basketball outlasts Penn State in tightly-contested contest

PHILADELPHIA — The Palestra was only half full Sunday night, but Pitt fans made the arena an electrifying atmosphere as they watched the men’s basketball team earn a 82-76 win against Penn State.

Anytime the Panthers made a highlight play, the fans’ voices echoed off the high ceilings with exposed support bars at the Palestra, which brings an old-school look to modern day. Known as the “Cathedral of College Basketball,” the Palestra is celebrating its 100th anniversary this season, and it hosted the 150th meeting between Pitt and Penn State.

The venue has old bleacher seats that are tightly packed together, keeping the fans close to the court even at the top of sections. Seating next to the…