It was the Nittany Lions' first win since beating Northwestern 84-80 on January 2.
A group of around 25 Penn State students aired their grievances armed with hand-warmers and signs.
This came after the Nittany Lions lost both of their games in the First Point Collegiate Challenge.
Nominations for the alumni seats will open on Tuesday, January 21.
Johnson suffered a right hand injury against Michigan State on Wednesday and did not return to the game.