The Scarlet Knights Prevail at Home Against the Nittany Lions

Tuesday night, the Scarlet Knights (6-4) handle business at home against the Penn State Nittany Lions (8-2).  As many understand, there’s a long tenure of rivalry between these two East Coast teams and this game was a thriller as a result of it. The Jersey Mikes Arena formally known as the Rutgers Atheltic Center (RAC) was filled wall to wall (8,000 in attendance). Despite the electric atmosphere helping propel the Scarlet Knights over Penn State, 80-76, this game appeared personal. The intensity the Scarlet Knights displayed from the opening tip was polarizing and set the tone for the remainder of the game. In fact, to open the game, the Nittany Lions were faced with a full-court press from the opening minute of the ballgame. 

“I mean we pick up full [court], Jamichael Davis gave us some really good minutes tonight,” Rutgers head coach Steve Pikiell stated. “He’s able to do that, but we just wanted to be better on that end. We spent a lot of time on film, and we talked about it and they’re learning.”

‍

‍

Tuesday night, star freshman guard Dylan Harper also put on an offensive clinic that allowed several other players to find their rhythm throughout the duration of the game. Harper recorded 24 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists coupled with other star player Ace Bailey recording a double-double (15 points and 15 rebounds) as well. He remained extremely efficient which helped force the defense to over pursue and guard him heavily, leaving several of his teammates like Jordan Derkack and Tyson Acuff who helped lead the bench with 27 points that proved to be the difference tonight.

‍

“I feel like when we all play together and stay connected we’re hard to beat,” Harper explained.   “Today, if I wasn’t getting shos up, just know I’m trying to make the right play all the time.” 

“Repetition honestly, just staying in the gym for countless hours and hours. Before and after practice trying to be my most consistent self,” Harper continued when asked about his efficiency

‍

Rutgers Biggest Takeaways

‍

Rutgers has a ton to be excited for and build on, however the biggest was their rebounding. While struggling to rebound throughout the season, against Penn State the emphasis was about rebounding and limiting their opportunities to maximize their own. Bailey didn’t necessarily shoot well tonight, yet he secured the double-digit rebounds that may have helped give other players key moments to help secure the victory. 

‍

“The fact, we went out and outrebounded them too is huge because you have to finish plays off,” Pikiell continued. “In the past, we’ve been letting them rebound and you got to defend all over again, so we did a really good job of finishing the plays off and that’s what we’ve struggled with at times.” 

‍

Bailey emphasized that rebounding was the main focus tonight not scoring. While shooting six for 14, it appeared anything outside of the paint wasn’t falling for him. Yet, to be able to display the diversity within his game and show he can be effective while being aggressive or not only makes the Scarlet Knights that much more dangerous. 

‍

“I can get what I want, tonight’s focus was on rebounding,” Bailey emphasized. “... We do have great rebounders, but I know it’s like ‘Ace you’re 6’10 and athletic, go get rebound!’ I wasn’t focused on scoring tonight, we can score when we need to score but tonight was more about rebounding on the defensive side.”

‍

‍

‍

What’s Next for the Scarlet Knights?

‍

Rutgers remains home for the Garden State Hardwood Classic on Saturday. Game time against Seton Hall is 3 pm.

‍

“We just weren’t good enough, I commend Rutgers,” Penn State head coach Mike Rhoades stated. “They got a great win tonight, and I hope this sting our guys and hope it burns. It’s just not good enough for Penn State and it’s not good enough for what we’re trying to do.”

‍