Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper turn Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell ambitious for Big Ten title: “We have lofty expectations”
Rutgers' newest stars Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper have their head coach Steve Pikiell thinking of a Big Ten title this season. In an interview with NBC Sports, Pikiell praised his two Scarlet Knights and set the record straight on just how high their expectations are this year.
"We've always tried to have real high expectations. We have 63 straight sellouts at Rutgers, I mean, our fans come out, they're unbelievable, and they support us. So we have lofty expectations, and these guys have brought a whole different set of eyeballs to our program."
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Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey are already turning heads
As a five-star, top 5 prospect, Airious "Ace" Bailey enters Rutgers as the highest-ranked recruit in their history. He's able to play every position on the court, and his skills on offense and defense are some of the best to be seen at the high school level.
Speaking about the talented prospect, coach Pikiell lauded his versatility and ability to see the floor:
"Ace Bailey may be the most versatile wing player in the country... What he does is pass the ball. He's an elite 6-foot-10 passer, really sees the floor and can make plays. But he's an emergency defensive guy, and can really block shots from the weak side... He makes guys around him better, which I think the great ones do."
Their other star freshman, Dylan Harper, who was a standout guard at Don Bosco Prep and one of the most highly decorated players on the Nike EYBL circuit, brings an equal amount of excitement and ability on the court.
Speaking about his game as one of the best point guards in the country, coach Pikiell said:
"Dylan Harper may be the best point guard in the country... lefty, downhill, physical guard who can flat out pass the ball and score. Just has a really good knack for when to pass, when to shoot, when to do things. He's fun."
It's safe to say that while there may be high expectations from these youngsters, coach Pikiell and this Rutgers team are exploring all possible options heading into a new season.
"People expect us to be good, and I say bring it on."
After two straight missed NCAA tournaments, the Scarlet Knights will be hunting a Big Ten title this year with one of the best-ranked recruiting classes in the country. Their season tips off on Nov. 6 against Wagner at Jersey Mike's Arena.