As Rutgers Basketball gears up for the College Basketball Crown, they'll face Creighton in a crucial matchup that could extend their season. Once the final buzzer sounds, the coaching staff will have some tough choices to make regarding their roster, particularly with center Emmanuel Ogbole.
Emmanuel Ogbole: The Decision Ahead
2025-26 Stats:
- Points per game: 4.6
- Rebounds per game: 6.1
- Assists per game: 1.2
Eligibility:
- Years remaining: 0/1
Ogbole has completed four seasons, with three at Rutgers and one at Monroe College. There's a possibility he could gain an additional year of eligibility due to recent trends in not counting junior college seasons.
The Case for Keeping Ogbole
First, Ogbole needs to secure that extra year of eligibility. If he does, he could be a valuable asset for Rutgers next season.
As a seasoned veteran, Ogbole knows the system inside out and could serve as a reliable backup center for 10 to 15 minutes per game. His familiarity with the program and likely affordability make him an attractive option to maintain depth.
Rutgers is on the hunt for a new starting center via the transfer portal. While Gevonte Ware hasn't yet proven himself as a solid backup and Baye Fall didn’t quite meet expectations, Ogbole could fill that No. 2 spot effectively. Centers can be expensive in the portal, and Ogbole might be the most budget-friendly choice to bolster the lineup.
The Case for Letting Him Go
Over the past two seasons, Ogbole's stint as the starting center didn't translate into a formidable defensive presence. Despite his physical attributes, his rim protection left much to be desired. Rutgers struggled defensively, particularly against Big Ten rivals, when Ogbole was on the court.
For Rutgers to climb the Big Ten ranks, they need more from their big men defensively. With an anticipated increase in NIL opportunities, exploring other options for the center position might be the path forward. Ogbole, as he stands, may not be enough to push Rutgers back into contention.
In the end, Rutgers faces a pivotal decision with Ogbole. Whether they choose to retain him for depth or seek new talent will shape their strategy for the upcoming season.