Rutgers Basketball Eyeing ‘March Madness’

By STEVE HENRICI

It’s been 29 years since Rutgers basketball made the NCAA Tournament, but they are one game way from their first winning season in 14 years and getting closer to a shot into next month’s March Madness tournament.

Rutgers currently has a 16-5 record and they could not have done this without such a strong home court advantage. They are currently 15-0 on their home floor and have had a sell out crowd in at least four straight games. Their remaining four home games have all been sold out.

“It’s just really exciting. My friends and I always l loved going to their games, but now that they are ranked and playing this well I don’t want to miss it,” said Jimmy Valerio a Rutgers senior.

Rutgers has a shot at March Madness.” March Madness,” happens in the final month of the college season, and consists of now just 68 of the 351 schools that are labeled as Division 1. It is one of the most popular events of the entire sports season, with each game as a “win or go home.”

The Rounds consist of the following, Round 64, Round of 32, Sweet 16, Elite 8, Final 4, and then championship game. They made it the furthest back in 1976, when they went all the way to the final four and lost to Michigan.

Here is a tweet from Jon Rothstein who covers the NCAA for CBS Sports

Rutgers has had 1 20-win season since 1983.

Rutgers has not been to the NCAA Tourney since 1991.

Rutgers has had 13 straight losing seasons.

If the Scarlet Knights hear their name called on Selection Sunday, Steve Pikiell deserves consideration for National Coach of the Year.

— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) January 29, 2020

“I think it’s really cool, everyone I know loves basketball. I’m happy for all players that their hard work is finally paying off,” said Alex Bellany a Rutgers Senior.

Harper Note-

Sophomore guard Ron Harper is one of Rutgers best players, averaging 12 points per game. Harper played his High School ball at Don Bosco high school in Franklin Lakes New Jersey.

Purdue Head Coach Painter-

After beating Purdue in their last game, head coach Matt Painter said this.. “They’ve got a chance not just to get into the tournament, but a chance to win some games in the tournament. I think they’re going to be a real tough out. Painter led Purdue to the Elite 8 last season and the Sweet 16 for three years in a row.

What’s next-

Their remaining schedule consists of 10 more games before the Big 10 conference tournament starts. They play next on Saturday against Michigan at Madison Square Garden.

Rutgers hopes to hear their name called on the second Sunday in March, but from the looks of it right now. They won’t have to sweat too much.