NN Staff Report

July 27, 2009 

Taran Buie is only adding to the anticipation in State College.

Buie, a 6-foot-2 rising senior combo guard who has verbally committed to the Nittany Lions, came through in the clutch for Albany City Rocks (N.Y.) against Team Final (Philadelphia) on Monday during final day action of the AAU Super Showcase from Orlando.

He scored 16 points, including a breakaway with 18 seconds left that broke a 64-64 tie, and added a drive to the hoop after a teammate picked up a loose ball with 2.7 seconds left in a 68-64 win. The game was televised live on ESPNU.

Here are highlights of Buie, younger brother of Penn State guard Talor Battle and the No. 56 prospect in ESPN's top 100, in action, followed by his chat with Nittany Network affiliate Gator Country in Orlando.

What's improved in his game this year:

"I'm better on defense and doing little things it takes to win. I don't have to score on this team for us to win so I can do a lot of other things that help us. I think I've improved a whole lot this summer."

On what Buie sees his primary role on City Rocks:

"I'm a better leader now. We've got a lot of guys who have played together a long time and we know each other pretty well. I'm expected to be a leader and I work at it. I think I've gotten better and the guys respect me."

On playing with his brother:

"He's quicker and more athletic. He kicks my butt a lot but that makes me better."

On playing for Penn State:

"I'm excited about the program and where we're going. We're only going to get better. It's an exciting time to be going to Penn State."