COLUMN: Rutgers women's basketball newcomers must continue strong performances
The Rutgers women's basketball team earned its third win of the season against Saint Francis on Saturday. The Scarlet Knights (3-2, 0-0) defeated the Red Flash (0-4, 0-0) 80-51 in a dominant offensive performance.
Coming into this season, Rutgers added junior guard and forward Destiny Adams and sophomore guard Mya Petticord to strengthen its roster. The Knights also recruited freshman guards Jillian Huerter and Lisa Thompson.
The newcomers have made an instant impact on the Banks with their strong performances.
Adams, a transfer from the University of North Carolina, has been a force in the paint for Rutgers and averages a team-leading 14.4 points per game. She is also a strong rebounder, as she has grabbed a team-leading 49 rebounds and averages 9.8 rebounds per game. Adams has been holding it down for the Knights on the defensive end, as she is tied for the most blocks and has the most steals on the team.
Petticord, a transfer from Texas A&M, has assumed the role of point guard for Rutgers and has proven to be a steady offensive presence. Petticord has dished out the second-most assists on the team and averages 8.8 points per game. In only five games, Petticord has displayed her willingness and great ability to run an offense.
Huerter has been a lights-out shooter for the Knights. Her ability to come off the bench and score points has given Rutgers a significant boost. Huerter's field goal percentage and three-point percentage are the third-highest on the team. Huerter recorded 15 points in the Knights' win against Saint Francis and scored 5 of 7 shots from beyond the arc.
Thompson had some shooting struggles at the beginning of the season, but she has shown improvement. Thompson has not missed a shot from the free throw line and has the second-highest percentage from behind the arc. She scored 5 of 12 shots from the field and had a team-leading 16 points in the victory against the Red Flash.
Early in the season, Rutgers has showcased the incredible impact of its newcomers. The expanded roster — highlighted by new talents Adams, Petticord, Huerter and Thompson — has already proven crucial in securing wins. Each player brings unique skills to the table that contribute to winning in many different ways. As the season progresses, continued stellar performances from these new additions will be vital in bringing the Knights to further success on the court.
Rutgers will look to its newcomers to continue their strong performances against Texas Tech on Friday.
For more updates on the Rutgers women's basketball team, follow @TargumSports on X.
