Rutgers head coach Steve Pikiell speaks to his team during a timeout in the first half against Penn State, Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024 in Piscataway, N.J.
Reeling Rutgers men’s basketball hopes to end a three-game losing streak by defeating Nebraska and Michigan.
Following the Michigan game, Rutgers will travel to the Value City Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska, to face the Cornhuskers (20-8, 10-7). Although Rutgers defeated Nebraska 87-82 in a thrilling overtime game in January, the Cornhuskers have since posted an impressive 7-3 record, while Rutgers has struggled with a 4-6 record.
Nebraska, currently ranked fifth in the conference standings, has been a surprise contender in the Big Ten this season, a significant improvement from their 12th-place finish last season.
While Rutgers should have the upper hand in their home game against Michigan, facing Nebraska on the road will pose a significant challenge, as the Cornhuskers boast a 17-1 home record this season, including a flawless 9-0 record in home conference games.
Despite their recent losing streak dampening NCAA Tournament hopes, head coach Steve Pikiell’s focus should now shift to building momentum with players who will return next year, such as freshmen guards Gavin Griffiths and Jamichael Davis, and redshirt junior guard Jeremiah Williams. Griffiths has seen increased playing time in the last two games and has shown signs of improvement, indicating a positive trajectory for the young player.
With only three games left in the regular season, Rutgers currently sits in 12th place in the conference and must work to reverse their momentum before the Big Ten Tournament.
The game between Rutgers and Michigan will tip off at 8:30 p.m. and will be broadcast on Fox Sports 1, while the matchup against Nebraska will start at 6:30 p.m. on Big Ten Network. Both games can also be heard on 88.7 WRSU-FM.
