
Rutgers Makes Unwanted History at NBA Draft: Two Stars Selected, but No NCAA Tournament Appearance
2025-06-26
Author: Wai
On an unforgettable night at the NBA Draft, Rutgers University etched its name into the history books—but not for any reason to celebrate. While former Scarlet Knights Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey were chosen as the second and fifth picks overall, Rutgers finds itself holding a grim distinction.
In a shocking twist, Rutgers became the first program in college basketball history to miss the NCAA Tournament with two players drafted in the top five of the following NBA Draft. This unprecedented scenario will surely haunt the Scarlet Knights and their head coach, Steve Pikiell, for years to come.
Despite boasting two elite talents, Rutgers was out of the March Madness picture by mid-January, finishing the season with a disappointing 15-17 record, culminating in a first-round exit from the Big Ten Tournament.
Dylan Harper: A Star in the Making
Harper, who became the highest draft pick in the program's history, dazzlingly showcased his skills in a single season at Rutgers. He set a new record for points scored by a true freshman, netting a whopping 564 points and achieving an impressive average of 19.4 points per game.
Across 29 games, Harper also demonstrated his all-around game with averages of 4.6 rebounds, four assists, and 1.4 steals, all while shooting 48.4% from the field. His talent was undeniable, even as he battled through injuries, including an illness and an ankle sprain.
Ace Bailey: A Mixed Bag of Potential
Bailey, the enigma of the draft, had a more turbulent season. Although he averaged 17.6 points with a respectable shooting percentage of 46%, his inconsistency raised concerns among NBA scouts. He dazzled with explosive performances, including a jaw-dropping 39-point game against Indiana, but his defensive lapses and low assist average of 1.3 per game left questions about his overall readiness for the professional stage.
Nevertheless, the Utah Jazz took a leap of faith, selecting Bailey fifth overall, further solidifying Rutgers' place in a baffling chapter of college basketball history.
With two bright prospects heading to the NBA, Rutgers is left reflecting on what could have been—a talented roster that failed to make a significant impact in college basketball's biggest tournament. Fans and analysts will be watching closely as Harper and Bailey embark on their professional careers, while Rutgers remains a cautionary tale of missed opportunities.