How Rutgers Basketball is Navigating a High-Stakes Offseason
For the Rutgers Scarlet Knights men’s basketball team, the 2022-23 season ended with a disappointing thud. After a promising start that saw them briefly ranked in the AP Top 25, the Knights stumbled down the stretch, finishing 18-15 and missing out on the NCAA Tournament. Now, Rutgers faces a crucial offseason as it looks to bounce back in the upcoming campaign. Here are some of the key storylines to watch:
Coaching Changes
Head coach Steve Pikiell has led Rutgers to two NCAA Tournament appearances in his seven seasons at the helm, but the team’s recent struggles have raised questions about his future. However, AD Pat Hobbs has expressed confidence in Pikiell, and there are no indications that his job is in jeopardy.
Roster Turnover
Rutgers is expected to experience significant roster turnover this offseason. Seniors Caleb McConnell, Paul Mulcahy, and Mawot Mag have all exhausted their eligibility, while Cam Spencer has entered the transfer portal. The departures of these key players will leave a major void in the Knights’ rotation. However, Rutgers has already taken steps to address the holes, bringing in transfers from Saint Peter’s (KC Ndefo) and Towson (Nicolas Timberlake).
Incoming Recruits
Rutgers also has a highly-touted recruiting class coming in for the 2023-24 season. The class is led by four-star prospects Gavin Griffiths, Derek Simpson, and Aundre Hyatt. These new additions could provide some much-needed talent and depth to the Knights’ roster. However, it will be important for them to adjust quickly to the rigors of Big Ten play.
Schedule
Rutgers will have a challenging non-conference schedule next season, which includes games against Seton Hall, North Carolina, and Purdue. The Knights will also face a tough Big Ten slate, with road trips to Iowa, Michigan State, and Wisconsin. The strength of the schedule will provide Rutgers with opportunities to test its mettle and build its resume. However, it will also be important for the team to avoid early-season slip-ups that could derail its NCAA Tournament hopes.
Outlook
Rutgers faces a challenging offseason, but it also has the potential to rebound from its recent struggles. The team has a strong coaching staff, a talented recruiting class, and a favorable schedule. If the Knights can fill the holes in their roster and develop their young players, they have the potential to be a competitive force in the Big Ten and make a return to the NCAA Tournament. However, they will need to navigate the offseason wisely and avoid the mistakes that cost them last season.
Rutgers Basketball Navigates High-Stakes Offseason
Key Departures and Returning Players:
* Rutgers lost two key starters in Caleb McConnell (transfer to Pittsburgh) and Mawot Mag (graduation). * Returning starters include Cam Spencer, Aundre Hyatt, Paul Mulcahy, and Dean Reiber.
Transfer Portal Additions:
* The Scarlet Knights brought in several transfers, including: * Jalen Miller (Georgetown) * Mawot Mag (Jacksonville) * Ralph Agee (Grambling State) * Derek Simpson (COPA)
New Assistant Coaches:
* Head coach Steve Pikiell hired two new assistant coaches: * TJ Anderson (Connecticut) * Karl Hobbs (West Virginia)
Offseason Focus:
*
Improve Shooting:
Rutgers ranked 341st nationally in 3-point shooting last season. The team is working on improving its perimeter game. *
Strengthen Rebounding:
The Scarlet Knights were one of the worst rebounding teams in the Big Ten last season. They are emphasizing rebounding drills. *
Develop Leadership:
With McConnell’s departure, the team needs to find new leaders on and off the court. *
Build Chemistry:
With numerous new players joining the roster, building team chemistry is crucial for success.
Upcoming Schedule:
* Rutgers will face a challenging non-conference schedule, including games against: * Louisville (November 15) * DePaul (November 18) * UMass (November 28) * St. Bonaventure (December 13)
Outlook:
* The Scarlet Knights face an uphill battle in Big Ten play. They will need to improve their shooting and rebounding if they want to compete for a conference title. * With a talented roster and experienced coaching staff, Rutgers has the potential to be a sleeper team in the conference. * The team’s performance in the offseason will be關鍵 to their success in the upcoming season.