The Lady Lions avoided a late comeback from the Spartans to open the season.
"This year, I feel really comfortable, [which] is the main thing, and I know [my teammates are] going to make the right plays."
"We know we can play with those big teams no matter what."
Jalen Pickett led the way with 23 points, followed by Andrew Funk's 22-point Penn State debut.
The first-round matchup is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Sunday, November 13.
The Nittany Lions jumped five spots in the latest USCHO Poll following a series split against Michigan.