On Friday Nov. 15 the Monmouth University Hawks visited the Scarlet Knights at the famed RAC at Rutgers University in what was billed as a highly anticipated game due to the debut of Rutgers’ Ace Bailey.
Rutgers dominated the entire game despite Monmouth cutting into the Scarlet Knights lead in the 2nd half. Rutgers outscored Monmouth 98-81 with RU’s Dylan Harper leading the way offensively with 20 points making this Harper’s third straight game in where he scored 20 plus points.
RU Forward Zach Martini scored 18 points and was 7 of 10 on shooting. RU shot 59.6 percent from the field and totaled 12 assists. Meanwhile MU’s Abdi Bashir Jr set a program record for 3-pointers made, scoring 10 out of the 38 points made by 3-pointers from the Hawks while Forward Chris Morgan scored a career best of 7 points.
All eyes though, were on Ace Bailey who is Rutgers highest-ranked prospect to ever sign with Rutgers. Bailey who missed the first two games due to injury made his collegiate debut on Friday night asserting himself on the court and putting on a show. Bailey finished with 17 points and 6 rebounds. Bailey plays with an immense amount of passion and his game is fluid. Bailey’s athleticism makes his game look effortless, and it is safe to say he came as advertised.
Rutgers will host Merrimack on Wednesday Nov. 20 while Monmouth visits the Wichita State Shockers on Monday Nov. 18.
