The arrival of Dylan Harper and Airious “Ace” Bailey has significantly transformed the landscape for Rutgers basketball. The excitement surrounding these two five-star recruits has fueled discussions of a potential preseason top-25 ranking, bringing a level of attention that is rare for the New Jersey institution.
NBA scouts are expected to flock to Jersey Mike’s Arena to evaluate these projected one-and-done talents, intensifying the spotlight on the Scarlet Knights even before the season starts. With this attention comes a set of expectations, and Rutgers is prepared to embrace the challenge.
Head coach Steve Pikiell welcomes the heightened anticipation. “Since my first day here, my goal has been to win a national championship,” he remarked during media day. “Expectations? I thrive on them. We’ve always aimed high.”
Pikiell has achieved several milestones at Rutgers, including the school’s first NCAA Tournament appearance and victory in three decades in 2021. However, coaching players of Harper and Bailey’s caliber marks a new chapter for him. Ranked second and third in the nation among high school seniors last year by 247Sports.com, both are projected as future NBA stars.
During a recent media-accessible practice, Harper and Bailey demonstrated their exceptional skills, effortlessly sinking long-range shots, driving to the basket, and facilitating plays for their teammates. If not for Duke’s standout Cooper Flagg, the versatile 6-foot-10 Bailey would be a leading candidate for the top pick in next year’s NBA draft.
“They’re definitely not under the radar,” Pikiell joked. “They’re elite passers and come from great families. We’re fortunate to have them here. They are not only talented but also hardworking and supportive teammates.”
Tyson Acuff, a guard transferring from Duquesne, echoed this sentiment, noting, “Every day they impress me. Whether it’s shooting, dunking, communicating, or defending, they bring it all.”
After practice, both players emphasized their focus on team success rather than individual accolades. Harper articulated this sentiment clearly, stating, “At the end of the day, wins and losses are what matter. You can’t win alone; it’s a team effort.”
To maximize the duo’s potential, Pikiell has strategically assembled a team with experienced transfers, including Princeton’s Zach Martini, San Diego’s PJ Hayes IV, and Merrimack’s Jordan Derkack, the NEC’s Player and Defensive Player of the Year. He also retained key guards Jamichael Davis and Jeremiah Williams, fostering a sense of optimism in Piscataway.
The excitement is palpable, with the season already sold out, and players like Martini are setting ambitious goals: “We’re aiming for the Final Four and the Big Ten championship. We’ll put in the hard work to achieve that.”
Harper and Bailey’s partnership has ignited dreams of greatness among Rutgers fans. Their bond dates back to Bailey’s first visit to the campus, and now they’re ready to share the court for at least this season. Harper, whose brother Ron Jr. played for Pikiell, is eager to leave his mark.
“It feels surreal,” he said. “I watched the previous team, with Ron and others, get close to the Sweet 16. Now, I have the chance to create something special for Rutgers Nation.”
