COLUMN: Rutgers men's basketball has talent to beat any opponent
The Rutgers men's basketball team earned its fifth win of the season against Saint Peter's this past Monday. The Scarlet Knights (5-1, 0-0) will face a challenge, though, in their first Big Ten game against Illinois at Jersey Mike's Arena on Livingston campus this Saturday.
Rutgers has established itself as a competitive team since falling to Princeton in its season opener, as it has won its last five games by double-digit figures. The future looks bright with the possibility of senior forward Mawot Mag playing against the Fighting Illini (5-1, 0-0). Mag tore his ACL last season and played a key role on defense.
The Knights have started to gel as a team, which is thanks to some of the experienced players leading the way. Fifth-year guard Noah Fernandes has found his form, averaging 9 points per game (PPG) and providing the second-most assists on the team.
Fernandes scored a season-high 19 points in the win against the Peacocks (1-4, 0-0). His leadership should play a part against No. 24 Illinois and for the rest of the season.
Senior center Clifford Omoruyi has continued to show out, grabbing a team-leading 55 rebounds and averaging 11.7 PPG. Omoruyi's 6-foot-11 stature allows Rutgers to out-rebound many of its opponents.
Sophomore guard Derek Simpson is another impact player for the Knights, following close behind Omoruyi with 10.7 PPG. His career-high 23 points led Rutgers to victory against Howard, where he showcased his excellent ball-handling abilities.
And you can't forget freshman guards Gavin Griffiths and Jamichael Davis, who bring great intensity off the bench. Their youth and ability allow them to make an impact in any game as a spark plug.
Rutgers will be tested against the Fighting Illini, who have scored more than 80 points in each of their last three games and are second in rebounds per game across the nation.
The key is Mag and his health. The senior would be a massive addition to the Knights' defense against high-powered opponents like Illinois this season. Even without Mag, Rutgers has the talent on offense to outscore its opponents. The Knights will look to utilize all of their skills against the Fighting Illini on Saturday.
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