Rutgers Falls to Michigan 66-63 Despite Missing Star Freshman Dylan Harper

PISCATAWAY, N.J. – Rutgers basketball fell short in a hard-fought 66-63 loss to Michigan on Saturday, despite missing star freshman Dylan Harper due to a sprained ankle. The Scarlet Knights, already shorthanded without starting guard Jeremiah Williams and center Manny Ogbole, pushed the Wolverines to the brink but couldn’t overcome their offensive struggles.

Harper, a standout guard averaging 18.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, has been sidelined since aggravating a high ankle sprain in a Jan. 25 loss to Michigan State. His absence left a significant void in Rutgers’ lineup, compounded by Williams’ early exit due to illness and Ogbole’s season-ending knee injury.

Michigan (16-5, 8-2 Big Ten) capitalized on Rutgers’ depleted roster, double-teaming freshman Ace Bailey and limiting him to 10 points on 3-of-15 shooting. Bailey, who had scored 37 points in the previous game against Northwestern, struggled to find his rhythm against the Wolverines’ defense.

Despite the loss, Rutgers (11-11, 4-7 Big Ten) showed resilience, outrebounding Michigan 15-5 on the offensive glass and forcing 17 turnovers. However, the Scarlet Knights shot just 32% from the field and converted only six points off second-chance opportunities. They also attempted a season-high 36 three-pointers, far exceeding their usual volume.

Sophomore guard Derek Simpson stepped up in Harper’s absence, scoring 20 points and committing no turnovers. Postgrad guard Noah Fernandes added 11 points off the bench, while freshman Emmanuel Ogbole contributed five rebounds in just nine minutes of play.

Rutgers fans packed the arena, showing unwavering support despite the team’s recent struggles. Michigan’s traveling fans also made their presence felt, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the game.

With their NCAA Tournament hopes hanging by a thread, the Scarlet Knights face a must-win situation against Illinois on Wednesday. Harper’s return remains uncertain, as he continues to recover from his ankle injury. The Don Bosco Prep graduate has battled multiple setbacks this season, including a bout with the flu that caused him to miss one game and struggle in others.

Rutgers is 3-1 in Big Ten games when Harper is healthy or close to full strength, compared to 1-3 when he is sidelined or limited. The team will need to regroup quickly to keep their postseason aspirations alive.