Rutgers Athletics Closes the Week with Clutch Performances, Major Milestones, and Big-Time Recognition
It was a week packed with drama, milestones, and momentum for Rutgers Athletics. From buzzer-beaters on the hardwood to national honors and program-shifting hires on the football front, the Scarlet Knights wrapped up the week with plenty to build on heading into the holidays.
Men’s Basketball Steals the Spotlight with a Last-Second Thriller
Let’s start with the fireworks at Jersey Mike’s Arena. Rutgers men’s basketball delivered one of the most dramatic finishes of the season, edging Penn 70-69 in a game that came down to the final possession.
Down by six late, the Scarlet Knights didn’t flinch. They tightened the screws on defense, forced key turnovers, and made their free throws count.
But the night belonged to Tariq Francis, who went off for a career-high 34 points-including the game-winning three-pointer with just seconds to spare. It was the kind of clutch performance that can flip a season’s momentum.
This win couldn’t have come at a better time for a Rutgers squad that had been through a rough patch, dropping games to Purdue, Michigan, and Seton Hall. Snapping that three-game skid at home not only gave the Knights a much-needed lift, but also reminded them-and everyone watching-what they’re capable of when they execute under pressure.
With Big Ten play looming, this was more than just a win. It was a statement. Next up: a final tune-up against Delaware State on December 29th before diving headfirst into conference play.
Women’s Basketball Closes Nonconference Play with a Win-and History
The Rutgers women’s team also closed the week on a high note, knocking off Lafayette 54-45 to stop a two-game slide. But this one was about more than just getting back in the win column.
Faith Blackstone reached the 1,000-point milestone at the Division I level, a major accomplishment that speaks to her consistency and scoring ability. And head coach Coquese Washington notched her 250th career win-a testament to her longevity and leadership in the women’s game.
Early on, things didn’t look promising. Rutgers came out cold, shooting just 1-for-15 in the opening quarter and falling behind 11-4. But they responded with a 9-0 run to take the lead into halftime and controlled the third quarter to build a cushion they wouldn’t relinquish.
Blackstone led the way with a season-best 22 points and 12 rebounds, while Nene Ndiaye added 19 points and 10 boards-including eight offensive rebounds that helped Rutgers dominate second-chance opportunities. The Knights forced 21 turnovers and turned them into 22 points, while also winning the rebounding battle by a whopping 21.
Now, the real test begins. The Big Ten grind starts December 28th on the road against #24 Michigan State, and if Rutgers wants to make noise in the conference, they’ll need to clean up the scoring droughts that have plagued them in nonconference play. But with their defense and rebounding locked in, they’ve got a foundation to build on.
Across the Board, Rutgers Athletes Earn National and Conference Recognition
It wasn’t just hoops making headlines. Rutgers athletes across multiple sports were recognized for standout performances and academic excellence this week, highlighting the depth of talent and dedication across the program.
The biggest honor went to Antwan Raymond, who was named the top Canadian player in NCAA football, taking home the prestigious Cornish Trophy after a breakout sophomore season. It’s a major accolade and a sign that Raymond is just getting started.
Field hockey standout Puck Winter earned Second Team All-American honors for 2025, while gymnasts Emily Leese and Gabrielle Dildy were both named Big Ten Gymnasts to Watch heading into the new season. On the diving side, Bailee Sturgill and Katerina Hoffman brought home silver medals at the 2025 USA Diving Winter Nationals-an impressive showing on a national stage.
And in the classroom, Rutgers continued to shine, with a strong showing in Academic All-Big Ten honors. It’s clear the Scarlet Knights are putting in the work on and off the field.
Football Program Adds Veteran Coach, Navigates Transfer Departures
On the football front, Rutgers made a significant addition to its coaching staff, hiring Jim Turner as the new offensive line coach. Turner brings a wealth of experience, including stints at Texas A&M, Delaware, Boston College, and Temple, plus time in the NFL with the Dolphins and Bengals. His track record includes developing first-round NFL draft picks and building physical, run-heavy lines-something Rutgers could use as they look to take the next step offensively.
But the week wasn’t without its losses. Cornerback Bo Mascoe, Rutgers’ highest-graded defender last season per PFF, announced he’ll enter the transfer portal in the coming weeks.
Mascoe was a rare bright spot in a struggling defense, finishing with 48 tackles, two forced fumbles, and an interception. He earned All-Big Ten honorable mention and still has two years of eligibility left.
Linebacker Sam Robinson also entered the portal after appearing in 10 games this past season, while offensive lineman John Stone is transferring as well, though he wasn’t expected to contribute significantly at this level.
The departures sting, but they also open the door for new faces to step up-and with the portal officially opening January 2nd, expect more movement in the coming weeks.
What’s Next: Big Ten Play, Winter Sports Return, and Spring on the Horizon
As the holiday break arrives, both basketball teams are gearing up for the Big Ten gauntlet. The men’s team will get one more nonconference test against Delaware State on December 29th, while the women jump straight into the fire with a road trip to East Lansing to face #24 Michigan State on December 28th.
Meanwhile, winter sports like wrestling, swimming & diving, and gymnastics are preparing to ramp back up, and lacrosse fans got their first glimpse of spring with the release of the 2026 men’s and women’s schedules.
And don’t forget football. With a defensive coordinator hire still on the horizon and the transfer portal about to heat up, there’s plenty more to come from Piscataway before the year is out.
For now, Rutgers heads into the holidays with momentum, milestones, and a lot to look forward to.