Rutgers men’s basketball is set to continue its two-game road trip in the challenging Big Ten Conference, following a strong performance against Penn State. After their match against the Nittany Lions on Wednesday, the Scarlet Knights will face off against Minnesota this Saturday at 12 p.m., with coverage provided by the Big Ten Network.
The team is riding high on a two-game winning streak, having secured victories against both Maryland and Penn State. Rutgers defeated Maryland with a score of 68-57 and followed that up with an impressive 85-72 win against Penn State at the Bryce Jordan Center. In this latter game, the Scarlet Knights dominated early, maintaining the lead for all but 19 seconds and even extending their lead to 20 points at times. The team showcased a balanced offensive attack, with four players scoring in double digits, including a standout performance from one player with 22 points. Additionally, the Scarlet Knights registered 16 assists, their second-highest total of the season, and captured 10 steals, emphasizing their defensive prowess.
Rutgers’ star player has been particularly noteworthy, leading the team with an impressive scoring average of 21.14 points over his last seven games, in which he has registered multiple games of 20 or more points. This season, he has demonstrated exceptional skill at the free-throw line, boasting an impressive percentage that ranks among the best in the program’s history.
On the other hand, the Minnesota Gophers began their season with promise but have experienced struggles recently, holding a record of 2-9 in their last 11 games after starting 10-5. They managed a recent win against Oregon, where they showcased strong defensive capabilities and balanced scoring, a crucial area they’ll need to leverage against Rutgers.
Historically, Rutgers has held a slight edge in the all-time matchup against Minnesota, winning six of the last nine contests. The teams’ last face-off ended in an overtime victory for Rutgers, and they will be eager to extend their winning streak against the Gophers. A win on Saturday would mark Rutgers’ third consecutive victory against Big Ten opponents and provide momentum as they prepare for their next home game against Washington.
The Scarlet Knights are not only competing on the basketball court; they will also be joined by the women’s swimming and diving team as they participate in the Big Ten Championships in Minneapolis, creating a lively Scarlet Knights presence in the city. This weekend presents a prime opportunity for Rutgers to establish itself further in the conference while showcasing its athletic talent across different sports.