For Rutgers basketball, the expectation is now that of postseason appearances. The Scarlet Knights have established themselves as a top-half of the Big Ten caliber program as they look to build on their success from the last two years.
Rutgers is looking to make it three straight NCAA Tournament appearances. Last year, Rutgers went 18-14 (12-8 Big Ten) and lost 89-87 in overtime to Notre Dame in the play-in game.
One reason why Rutgers is in the mix for the postseason again this year is their homecourt advantage. Last season at Jersey Mike’s Arena, Rutgers was 14-3 on their home court.
Speaking at the Big Ten Media Days on Tuesday, Rutgers head coach Steve Pikiell was asked about his homecourt advantage.
“I mean, just the energy in the building. It starts way before the game. It starts leading up to the game, the days before,” Pikiell told reporters at the Big Ten’s media event this week.
“It’s a fan base that’s been very loyal, very passionate. Now we’ve added the elements of the great college students and their creativity, their youth and their enthusiasm.
“Jersey Mike’s is one of the toughest places I think to play. We love it. (An) Unbelievable home-court advantage there. Keeping these guys around keeps it that way, too. You’ve got to have good players. Basketball is about having good kids that are willing to sacrifice. We’ve talked a lot about that this year. They have to sacrifice minutes, their offense for defense, rebounds for points – those kind of things.
“I think our fans sacrifice. I think our players do. That has created a great environment for us.”
Pikiell said that his team plays with “a little Jersey grit and excitement and enthusiasm” which resonates with the fan base.