Saturday evening, the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (10-10) took on the No.8 Michigan State Spartans (17-2) at Madison Square Garden. Surprisingly, while at a neutral site, many supporters from both opposing teams were in attendance. In a sold out crowd, the energy within the building was electric and extremely pivotal for a lot of Rutgers players. Superstar forward Ace Bailey admitted this was his first time playing on a such a historic court, and it meant a lot to get that opportunity. Unfortunately, the Scarlet Knights fell to the Spartans, 81-74, but left the court with reasons to hold their head high.
“Playing front of that many people is a blessing, many people don’t get that opportunity to play in the Garden,” Bailey responded. “It was my first time playing in the garden, so playing in front 17,000 Rutgers fans it was dope.”
Trials and Tribulations for Rutgers
This season, the Scarlet Knights have been plagued with injuries, ultimately effecting their lineups and rotations. Heading into this game, they lost their leading rebounder Emmanuel Ogbole, and their two starting guards Dylan Harper was playing with a sprained ankle as well as Jordan Derkack with a hip injury that nealry sidelined him. This game, the Scarlet Knights started four freshman and was forced to play through the adversity. Rutgers head coach Steve Pikiell addressed the teams toughness and how he’s excited to have his group and would’nt trade them for anything.
“These guys are great kids, I wouldn’t trade any of them and expectations every year for our team are what they are,” Pikiell stated. “ You have to go through the journey, have to win the games, fight through the adversity, injuries, COVID-19 and these are things you have to be prepared for. I’m glad we fought to the end today, and thankful for our guys for doing that!”
On a bad hip, Derkack managed to keep Rutgers into the game with his shooting. Derkack led all of the Scarlet Knights in scoring with 26 points and four rebounds. This was partnered with Bailey’s 18 points nine rebounds, however the team struggled to score as effectively as they’ve done in the past. However, the inconsistencies forced the Scarlet Knights to struggle
“... To lose Emmnauel [Ogobe] and obviously Dylan’s a pretty good player, so to kind of work through those obstacles and have guys step up,” Pikiell continued. “I didn’t think he [Derkack] was going to play today, that’s how bad it was.”
Another disappointing performance for a banged-up team with two highly touted freshmen and top NBA prospects in Bailey and Harper that began the season ranked in the AP Top 25.
What’s Next ?
Michigan State hosts Minnesota on Tuesday, after winning the first meeting 90-72 on the road in their Big Ten opener Dec. 4. Rutgers visits Northwestern on Wednesday.
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