The Nittany Lions will take on the Illini at 7 p.m. on Tuesday in Omaha, Nebraska.
A three-run home run and a grand slam secured the win for Penn State.
The Nittany Lions missed last year's tournament.
The Nittany Lions gave up three runs in the sixth inning.
The Nittany Lions allowed eight runs in the seventh inning.
Lavelle spent one year with the Lady Lions.