As the Rutgers men's basketball team wraps up their season after a tough loss to UCLA in the Big Ten Tournament, head coach Steve Pikiell faces an offseason filled with pivotal decisions. Despite a challenging 14-19 record, several players have shown promise, and their return could significantly benefit a youthful Rutgers squad. Let’s dive into four key players the Scarlet Knights should prioritize retaining.
Lino Mark
Lino Mark started the season in a limited role off the bench, hitting double digits in scoring only four times in his first 25 games. However, his performance took a turn during a road game against Minnesota in February, where he racked up 16 points on 6-of-7 shooting, including a flawless 3-of-3 from beyond the arc. Mark followed that with a career-high 18 points against Washington, showcasing his potential with a perfect 6-for-6 from the free-throw line.
Despite a quieter game against Maryland, where he scored just 5 points in 17 minutes, Mark’s late-season surge saw him average 11.8 points over the final four games. His athleticism and ability to drive to the rim make him a crucial piece for Rutgers' backcourt. With a defensive style reminiscent of junior guard Jamichael Davis, Mark’s retention could be vital amidst the inevitable interest from other teams.
Mark expressed his appreciation for Coach Pikiell, saying, “I love playing for Pikiell. Since day one, he’s always believed in me, and I won’t take that for granted.”
Tariq Francis
Tariq Francis came to Rutgers with high expectations after leading the America East in scoring at NJIT. The junior guard silenced any doubts about his ability to perform in the Big Ten by averaging a team-high 16.9 points per game, ranking 15th in the conference. His scoring prowess was evident with 26 double-digit games, including three 30-point performances.
Francis also demonstrated near-perfect free-throw shooting, making the fifth most free throws in a single season for Rutgers and hitting 90.5 percent from the line. Ideally, Francis would be a dynamic sixth man, but retaining him ensures a reliable scoring option for the Knights.
“I’m committed to Rutgers,” Francis affirmed, highlighting his strong connection with the team and coaching staff.
Darren Buchanan Jr.
After transferring from George Washington, Darren Buchanan Jr. aimed to make an impact at Rutgers. The redshirt junior guard did just that, averaging 8.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. His versatility and ability to contribute in key moments made him a valuable asset.
Buchanan Jr. brings veteran experience and a knack for clutch plays, whether it’s hitting a crucial three or making a game-winning block. With another year under Pikiell, his defensive tenacity and all-around play could reach new heights.
“I’d definitely love to be back here at Rutgers,” Buchanan stated, expressing his desire to continue growing with the team.
Kaden Powers
Freshman Kaden Powers took time to find his rhythm but showed glimpses of his potential in games against Michigan and Illinois. His breakout came in February against UCLA, where he scored a season-high 18 points, shooting 7-of-11 from the field.
While consistency was a challenge, Powers averaged 6.1 points per game, demonstrating his shooting ability with at least one three-pointer in eight consecutive games. His development over the season sets a solid foundation for future growth.
Reflecting on his freshman year, Powers noted, “It was a good learning experience,” highlighting his eagerness to build on his progress.
In conclusion, these four players hold the key to Rutgers’ future success. Coach Pikiell’s ability to retain them will be crucial as the Scarlet Knights look to build on their potential and make a stronger impact next season.