Big Ten Basketball: Biggest storylines for each team entering 2024-25 season

Rutgers Scarlet Knights: Freshman may shine but its supporting cast will be pivotal

It is the most highly-anticipated season in Rutgers Scarlet Knights basketball history. Five-star freshmen Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey will highlight this year’s group, but the supporting cast that Steve Pikiell has assembled is essential for this team looking to get back into the Big Dance.

Even with Harper and Bailey’s NBA talents flourishing at the RAC, they cannot man this group alone.

That is why the supporting cast of Jeremiah Williams, Zach Martini (Princeton), Jamichael Davis, Tyson Acuff (Eastern Michigan), and Jordan Derkack (Merrimack) is incredibly crucial to the success of this year’s group. 

Acuff, who averaged 21.7 PPG at Eastern Michigan last season, suffered an injury this summer but expects to be back by the start of the season. Williams, who only played in 12 games last season after sitting out 20 games for violating the NCAA's gambling policy, was essential during the early February surge last season.

The lack of a true, impactful big man similar to Cliff Omoruyi (Alabama) is concerning, but the upside isn’t. Thanks to their supporting cast, the Scarlet Knights have that nice blend of upside and experience that is vital for a team looking to make noise in 2024-25.