With all due respect, when we talk about the marquee programs in college basketball history, Rutgersâ name doesnât always pop up. This year, however, theyâre must-watch television.
Thatâs because of their incredibly talented duo of Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper, both of whom are expected to be top-three picks in the upcoming edition of the NBA Draft.
They both dominated against Columbia, leading the team to a 91-64 victory in a packed arena. Moreover, with 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 12 dimes, Harper made history by recording the first triple-double in almost 42 years for his program.
Rutgers coach praises Dylan Harper after historic milestone
The Scarlet Knights hadnât had a player record a triple-double since former NBA player Roy Hinson did so in 1983. With that in mind, his coach, Steve Pikiell, shared some kind words for his young star:
Dylan Harper #2 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights looks on against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish
âRoy Hinson, not only a great player here and in the NBA, but a great guy, too,â Pikiell said. âTo be mentioned with him, for Dylan, thatâs a special thing. I love the fact that he had seven rebounds in the first half. We need him to do those things. And he passed the heck out of the ball.â
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Harper continues to make a case as a potential No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft, even ahead of Cooper Flagg. With these kinds of performances, it will be hard to argue with that statement.
