Dylan Harper impresses without injured Ace Bailey as No. 25 Rutgers routs Wagner in opener

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — Freshman standout Dylan Harper scored 20 points successful his highly anticipated debut to lead No. 25 Rutgers to a 75-52 triumph complete Wagner connected Wednesday nighttime successful nan season-opener for some schools.

Harper, a combo guard, is considered 1 of nan apical freshmen successful nan state and together pinch chap first-year guardant Ace Bailey, a awesome logic why nan Scarlet Knights entered nan play astatine No. 25.

Rutgers defender Dylan Harper (2) dunks against Wagner guards R.J. Greene (10) and Rahmir Moore (0) during nan 2nd half astatine Jersey Mikeâs Arena, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024 successful Piscataway, New Jersey. Noah K. Murray-NY Post

He is nan younger relative of Ron Harper Jr., who besides starred astatine Rutgers, and whose father, Ron Harper Sr, was a 15-year NBA veteran.

Rutgers was without Bailey, who was sidelined pinch an undisclosed wounded he suffered Monday successful practice. His position is day-to-day.

Rutgers defender Dylan Harper (2) shoots complete Wagner defender Ja’Kair Sanchez (3)during nan 2nd half astatine Jersey Mikeâs Arena, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024 successful Piscataway, New Jersey. Noah K. Murray-NY Post

Keyontae Lewis led Wagner pinch 12 points.

P.J. Hayes added 12 points and Lathan Sommerville contributed 11 points and grabbed 8 rebounds for Rutgers. Jeremiah Williams added 10 points for nan Scarlet Knights.

Harper’s only blemish was missing 5 of his six free propulsion attempts.