Rutgers University’s men’s basketball team rebounded impressively from a surprising loss to Kennesaw State by narrowly defeating Notre Dame 85-84 in overtime at the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas. Freshman guard Dylan Harper shone brightly in this matchup, leading the Scarlet Knights with a remarkable performance that included 36 points, six assists, and six rebounds, all while maintaining a low turnover rate of just one.
Harper’s scoring prowess was evident as he utilized his agility and driving skills to penetrate the Notre Dame defense, demonstrating the type of offensive impact Rutgers needs from him. His performance marked the highest single-game total for a Rutgers player since 2016, when Corey Sanders scored 39 points against Illinois.
Despite a commendable effort from Notre Dame’s Matt Allocco, who contributed 24 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists, the game came down to the final plays in overtime. Allocco made a clutch three-pointer to extend the game but narrowly missed a shot at the buzzer that would have clinched a win for his team.
The victory was critical for Rutgers, particularly after the loss to Kennesaw State. Coach Steve Pikiell made significant adjustments to his starting lineup which appeared to pay off. Jeremiah Williams and PJ Hayes stepped into key roles, contributing essential points and defense. Moreover, Tyson Acuff saw extended minutes and emerged as a surprise playmaker, helping the team secure crucial rebounds and maintain momentum.
Looking ahead, Rutgers will face ninth-ranked Alabama, a team that demonstrated their strength by defeating sixth-ranked Houston. The Scarlet Knights recognize the challenge but also see this as an opportunity to showcase their growth and resilience on a larger stage. As Harper stated, they’re looking to build on this victory and take a significant swing against a formidable opponent.
This win not only serves as a morale booster for Rutgers but also emphasizes their depth and ability to adapt under pressure. As the young squad continues to gain experience, there’s a hopeful anticipation for what they can achieve moving forward in the tournament and the season. Fans and players alike are excited about the potential this team has as they strive for improvement and success.