Rutgers Scarlet Knights Basketball 2026-27 Season Preview

Despite his recent cancer diagnosis, Steve Pikiell’s Rutgers Scarlet Knights are preparing for his 11th season in Piscataway. His teams have always proven to be hard-nosed and tough, just like the fight Pikiell is going through himself.

While Pikiell’s health and well-being are important, the Knights have to focus on the season. That’s where Rutgers can lean on its experience, as it returns several key playmakers on the guard. Senior Tariq Francis leads that group.

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With Francis at the forefront and some major transfer additions, the Rutgers Scarlet Knights look ready to fight for their coach this season. Let’s take a closer look at the 2026-27 Scarlet Knights.

Rutgers Scarlet Knights Basketball 2026-27 Season Preview

Mar Mar 1126; Chicago, IL, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Tariq Francis (0) after making a three-point basket against the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the first half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Roster Make-Up

As mentioned above, Francis returns. He had one heck of a season in 2025-26. He finished with an average of 17 points per game, and really developed a good bond with other guards like Leno Mark and Jamichael Davis.

In Davis’ case, he’s a two-time captain and by far the most experienced Rutgers player. He has been with Rutgers since the 2023-24 season. The Scarlet Knights had to do some real work in their frontcourt, however, as starting center Emmanuel Ogbole looked to try his hand at Kansas. Thus, Rutgers went to the portal and landed two bigs that will certainly shore up the post.

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Those players are Dorin Buca, a 7-foot-2, 286-pound transfer from Kansas State. As well as Christian Gurdak from Virginia Tech. Both have some steps to take this season, but they both give Rutgers size and strength in the post.

Add in some other fresh faces like Mervedi Miteo from the Congo, along with a returning sophomore, Gevonte Ware, ready for a bigger role, and Rutgers has the size and depth to take it to others in a…

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Publish date : 2026-10-01 13:00:00

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