iMO…what Pike MUST do to get this program foundation back pronto ….or else

[Scarlet Shack]

Let’s get done to some reality and what pike has to do here to fix this …or else it’s time to move on

first …let’s get this out of the way. I love the guy and what he does and how he wants to do it….and I’m rooting hard for him . But this is big boy sports …and he gets paid for results …and the bottom line is this is not tbree years running with no NCAAs and next year is likely number four.

If we don’t fix the roster and foundation in the next 8 -9 months , it’s time to find a coach because this time next year …4 years without a ncaa bid will become 6 plus ….and if that’s what will be , it will be with a new coach under a new AD.

Second….where did my expectations go wrong this year . I went with the hope thar what we got in the portal bad enogh talent to make up for three years of recruting failures that left one player on the roster from those three classes . I kept this opinion quiet until when it was clear that the portal transfers didn’t make the difference ….that’s when I started to beat the drums on how this season was lost through the lack of recruting first with misses in the classes of 2021-2023, and then the portal misses

Derkack and acuff were ranked 4 star transfer
Martini and hayes 3 star transfer

They provided as a group neither leadership or the basketball skill to help the frosh grow up …as a group …a disaster was born requiring 4 frosh to start in the big ten

So…THE question is ….how does pike re-establish a foundation for this program ? The next 8 months are critical

My objective criteria

1.) retain the three frosh, JMike, Ogoble and Derkack. We can’t keep staring over with a new roster. We need a foundation reset and it starts with these 6 guys .

2.) add two multi year starting guards to the roster from the portal. Get out the revenue sharing , Vegas money , raise more and get it done : these will had some necessary experience ….that now 8 players

3.) the four signees the m of 2025 …to restablish a foundation of 12 for 2025-2026…with only 2 seniors

4.) then we must retain this group …must keep the 8 of the 10 underclassmen …and lose none of the top 6

5.) sign a 4 man class in the class of 2026 thsr upgrades the talent with 3 top 125 -150 players
-point guard (Rippey or bivens ?)
-wing guard (maybe Aiden Derkack)
-combo forward
-center

Pike and staff knows ALL of this and it’s up to them to get it done .

Period .

Honestly , If pike can’t accomplish this ….take a deep breath , because next year will be it for Pike and we will get another coach because the next AD will not a program style and culture which really requires player retention and upper classmen get to t4 years without a NCAA bid that will turn into 6 plus years because the foundation for future success isn’t being bullt

This is what has to Happen for this orogram to get back on track.

Pike talks about program culture , identity , foundation . Defense , rebounding and toughness .

It crumbled under his watch ….

Fortunately …you can do it in today’s college basketball climate

But it’s up to him to execute something similar to this plan …and he better do it fast because reality is , with our resources and program in the big ten…3 years without a ncaa bid and without a tangible plan and execution on how to get back there in the upcoming years …is NOT acceptable

 

[RUtrumpet92]

I suspect Lathan will not return. Just a feeling. I have no info of any type. I would like to have him back. I think we can get the others on your list to stay.

If I'm right, we need a defensive minded 5 as well as the two experienced guests you're calling for. I still fear that roster needs another forward that can score from outside, too.

 

[Rutgers36]

Great post Shack. Very logical and detailed plan. Now we just need Pike to follow it. My only other wish is for Pike to bring in an assistant to run an offense. I'd love Brett McConnell or how about we convince Fran to comeback east and coach the offense. Get away from the pressure of being the head coach if he wants a break but still would like to stay involved in the game. It's my pipe dream. Similar to Martelli at Michigan under Howard.

 

[seansherm]

Keeping your opinion quiet until after seeing the results is just kinda using hindsight.

The rest you are pretty spot on.

 

[ancienthooper]

Let’s get done to some reality and what pike has to do here to fix this …or else it’s time to move on

first …let’s get this out of the way. I love the guy and what he does and how he wants to do it….and I’m rooting hard for him . But this is big boy sports …and he gets paid for results …and the bottom line is this is not tbree years running with no NCAAs and next year is likely number four.

If we don’t fix the roster and foundation in the next 8 -9 months , it’s time to find a coach because this time next year …4 years without a ncaa bid will become 6 plus ….and if that’s what will be , it will be with a new coach under a new AD.

Second….where did my expectations go wrong this year . I went with the hope thar what we got in the portal bad enogh talent to make up for three years of recruting failures that left one player on the roster from those three classes . I kept this opinion quiet until when it was clear that the portal transfers didn’t make the difference ….that’s when I started to beat the drums on how this season was lost through the lack of recruting first with misses in the classes of 2021-2023, and then the portal misses

Derkack and acuff were ranked 4 star transfer
Martini and hayes 3 star transfer

They provided as a group neither leadership or the basketball skill to help the frosh grow up …as a group …a disaster was born requiring 4 frosh to start in the big ten

So…THE question is ….how does pike re-establish a foundation for this program ? The next 8 months are critical

My objective criteria

1.) retain the three frosh, JMike, Ogoble and Derkack. We can’t keep staring over with a new roster. We need a foundation reset and it starts with these 6 guys .

2.) add two multi year starting guards to the roster from the portal. Get out the revenue sharing , Vegas money , raise more and get it done : these will had some necessary experience ….that now 8 players

3.) the four signees the m of 2025 …to restablish a foundation of 12 for 2025-2026…with only 2 seniors

4.) then we must retain this group …must keep the 8 of the 10 underclassmen …and lose none of the top 6

5.) sign a 4 man class in the class of 2026 thsr upgrades the talent with 3 top 125 -150 players
-point guard (Rippey or bivens ?)
-wing guard (maybe Aiden Derkack)
-combo forward
-center

Pike and staff knows ALL of this and it’s up to them to get it done .

Period .

Honestly , If pike can’t accomplish this ….take a deep breath , because next year will be it for Pike and we will get another coach because the next AD will not a program style and culture which really requires player retention and upper classmen get to t4 years without a NCAA bid that will turn into 6 plus years because the foundation for future success isn’t being bullt

This is what has to Happen for this orogram to get back on track.

Pike talks about program culture , identity , foundation . Defense , rebounding and toughness .

It crumbled under his watch ….

Fortunately …you can do it in today’s college basketball climate

But it’s up to him to execute something similar to this plan …and he better do it fast because reality is , with our resources and program in the big ten…3 years without a ncaa bid and without a tangible plan and execution on how to get back there in the upcoming years …is NOT acceptable

Good to see you couched your comments with the fact that Pikes and staff know this. So you’re not one of the dipshits who think they know more than the coach. Only thing I disagree with is #1 in that you CAN start over with a new roster, and many, many teams will be forced to start over as players chase the almighty dollar in unfettered free agency. I also think its led to an increase in selfish basketball…kids know that averaging 14 ppg will result in a bigger payday than 8 ppg. There’s always been a concern with your 4 year guys wanting to post numbers in order to sell themselves overseas. Now you have everybody chasing stats.

 

[darkcheck]

Love the analysis. Thanks! 3-doesn’t next year go to 15 scholarships? Meaning teams with deeper pockets can pluck the recruits we go after as their 13th+ guys. It could be a hurdle.

2 and 5 are the key. Low to mid major guards won’t cut it. What HSers they recruit is key. The staffs eye for talent has been off for a few years. I’m concerned that, while they know what you said (kudos to saying that), that they’re so caught in their own ways they’ll just keep evaluating talent the way they’ve been doing so.

 

[Scarlet Shack]

Keeping your opinion quiet until after seeing the results is just kinda using hindsight.

The rest you are pretty spot on.

Respectfully ….i am a fam and I really don’t like to call out our program on a public forum , until it’s very very obvious that it needs to be said.

There are Several prominent members of this forum who know I have had these opionions for a long time ….

I’m really not into Monday morning quarterbacking , but sometimes , for sales of trying to get our fan base more on the same page , I do make an effort (often in vein) to try to lay it out there…

 

[Scarlet Shack]

Good to see you couched your comments with the fact that Pikes and staff know this. So you’re not one of the dipshits who think they know more than the coach. Only thing I disagree with is #1 in that you CAN start over with a new roster, and many, many teams will be forced to start over as players chase the almighty dollar in unfettered free agency. I also think it’s led to an increase in selfish basketball…kids know that averaging 14 ppg will result in a bigger payday than 8 ppg. There’s always been a concern with your 4 year guys wanting to post numbers in order to sell themselves overseas. Now you have everybody chasing stats.

You can…100% agree

Can Pike??? So far , the last two seasons suggest otherwise …..

 

[Scarlet Shack]

Love the analysis. Thanks! 3-doesn’t next year go to 15 scholarships? Meaning teams with deeper pockets can pluck the recruits we go after as their 13th+ guys. It could be a hurdle.

2 and 5 are the key. Low to mid major guards won’t cut it. What HSers they recruit is key. The staffs eye for talent has been off for a few years. I’m concerned that, while they know what you said (kudos to saying that), that they’re so caught in their own ways they’ll just keep evaluating talent the way they’ve been doing so.

Here is the thing …I really like depth .

However , you also need to show recruits, freshmen snd r transfers, a path to those role on the team with minutes and how it can grow to year 2 and 3….and keeping that word IF they perform and show improvement …is more important now than ever to roster retention

I want clear minutes and rolls for Marc and Nuwili. This is why I was so mad a pike over grant …I want a plan for his development for 32 games , not 16…..

Overcrowding the roster can confuse this process …but not enough bodies is depth issues …it’s a delicate balance and this is why head coaches get paid a lot of money to figure this out and get it RIGHT

 

[darkcheck]

Here is the thing …I really like depth .

However , you also need to show recruits, freshmen snd r transfers, a path to those role on the team with minutes and how it can grow to year 2 and 3….and keeping that word IF they perform and show improvement …is more important now than ever to roster retention

I want clear minutes and rolls for Marc and Nuwili. This is why I was so mad a pike over grant …I want a plan for his development for 32 games , not 16…..

Overcrowding the roster can confuse this process …but not enough bodies is depth issues …it’s a delicate balance and this is why head coaches get paid a lot of money to figure this out and get it RIGHT

And he screwed Dortch too. Now asking the same staff to self assess and correct these things you’ve identified but be too much to hope for. I really hope there is a course correction.

 

[RUSCFORMERLYRULOU]

You can…100% agree

Can Pike??? So far , the last two seasons suggest otherwise …..

Ancienthooper will defend Pike from here to eternity, despite all empirical data showing he’s not really up for the job anymore.

 

[RUSCFORMERLYRULOU]

Great post Shack. Very logical and detailed plan. Now we just need Pike to follow it. My only other wish is for Pike to bring in an assistant to run an offense. I'd love Brett McConnell or how about we convince Fran to comeback east and coach the offense. Get away from the pressure of being the head coach if he wants a break but still would like to stay involved in the game. It's my pipe dream. Similar to Martelli at Michigan under Howard.

See post game press conference. He’s not bringing in new coaches nor firing anyone.

 

[lion1983]

Shack,

Good take, even with the typos (LOL!).

I especially agree with the retention of the 6 current players (though not sure Sommerville CAN be kept - all indications are he is hugely about the money, which creates a problem ... how much of RU's NIL allocation is he really worth?). Him leaving creates a hole that can only be filled from the portal - and would be very expensive, as we have seen,.

I also especially agree with your comments about the need for TWO starting level Wings (2G and/or WF - which are often exchangeable in today's college game). I have been saying this on the Board for several weeks when referring to next season. BOTH have to have the ability to be double-digit scorers. Both have to be able to play good defense. At least 1 has to be a very good 3-point shooter. I'd like for them to be multi-year players (like several Big 10 teams have been able to do, like Derkack is). But if one is a 5th year guy we could probably live with that.

The "5" position is going to be tough, because Ware is another undersized 5, like Sommerville is and Woolfolk was - but not as athletic as Woolfolk, nor as offensively skilled as Sommerville.

By the way, for those worried about RU having to wait to dela with the portal issues if they are in the Crown, that is not so, not entirely. RU can wait to figure out its retention. What RU CAN DO IMMEDIATELY UPON THE OPENING FO THE PRTAL is to aggressively seek those 2 starting level multi-year wings, and maybe a rim-protecting center. RU does not have to wait on retention realities for this. Why? RU only carried 12 of 13 allowed scholarships this past season, plus we KNOW Harper, Bailey, Martini, Hayes and Acuff are gone ... that is SIX open slots, with only 4 frosh coming in. So RU can aggressively try to recruit and fill at least TWO slots from the portal ASAP.

Now you might say you are not sure how much NIL will be available after retention costs. But my guess is that other than Sommerville, the staff has a pretty good idea of the "value" to retain the others. And if RU elects to not even bother to retain J. Williams, that is THREE open slots ... and surely the staff knows what it wants to do with Williams, no?

 

[darkcheck]

Shack,

Good take, even with the typos (LOL!).

I especially agree with the retention of the 6 current players (though not sure Sommerville CAN be kept - all indications are he is hugely about the money, which creates a problem ... how much of RU's NIL allocation is he really worth?). Him leaving creates a hole that can only be filled from the portal - and would be very expensive, as we have seen,.

I also especially agree with your comments about the need for TWO starting level Wings (2G and/or WF - which are often exchangeable in today's college game). I have been saying this on the Board for several weeks when referring to next season. BOTH have to have the ability to be double-digit scorers. Both have to be able to play good defense. At least 1 has to be a very good 3-point shooter. I'd like for them to be multi-year players (like several Big 10 teams have been able to do, like Derkack is). But if one is a 5th year guy we could probably live with that.

The "5" position is going to be tough, because Ware is another undersized 5, like Sommerville is and Woolfolk was - but not as athletic as Woolfolk, nor as offensively skilled as Sommerville.

By the way, for those worried about RU having to wait to dela with the portal issues if they are in the Crown, that is not so, not entirely. RU can wait to figure out its retention. What RU CAN DO IMMEDIATELY UPON THE OPENING FO THE PRTAL is to aggressively seek those 2 starting level multi-year wings, and maybe a rim-protecting center. RU does not have to wait on retention realities for this. Why? RU only carried 12 of 13 allowed scholarships this past season, plus we KNOW Harper, Bailey, Martini, Hayes and Acuff are gone ... that is SIX open slots, with only 4 frosh coming in. So RU can aggressively try to recruit and fill at least TWO slots from the portal ASAP.

Now you might say you are not sure how much NIL will be available after retention costs. But my guess is that other than Sommerville, the staff has a pretty good idea of the "value" to retain the others. And if RU elects to not even bother to retain J. Williams, that is THREE open slots ... and surely the staff knows what it wants to do with Williams, no?

Thanks for the info and analysis of why RU can start taking in portal recruits. One point, technically isn’t it four spots with the scholarships going to 15 next year?

 

[Scarlet Shack]

Shack,

Good take, even with the typos (LOL!).

I especially agree with the retention of the 6 current players (though not sure Sommerville CAN be kept - all indications are he is hugely about the money, which creates a problem ... how much of RU's NIL allocation is he really worth?). Him leaving creates a hole that can only be filled from the portal - and would be very expensive, as we have seen,.

I also especially agree with your comments about the need for TWO starting level Wings (2G and/or WF - which are often exchangeable in today's college game). I have been saying this on the Board for several weeks when referring to next season. BOTH have to have the ability to be double-digit scorers. Both have to be able to play good defense. At least 1 has to be a very good 3-point shooter. I'd like for them to be multi-year players (like several Big 10 teams have been able to do, like Derkack is). But if one is a 5th year guy we could probably live with that.

The "5" position is going to be tough, because Ware is another undersized 5, like Sommerville is and Woolfolk was - but not as athletic as Woolfolk, nor as offensively skilled as Sommerville.

By the way, for those worried about RU having to wait to dela with the portal issues if they are in the Crown, that is not so, not entirely. RU can wait to figure out its retention. What RU CAN DO IMMEDIATELY UPON THE OPENING FO THE PRTAL is to aggressively seek those 2 starting level multi-year wings, and maybe a rim-protecting center. RU does not have to wait on retention realities for this. Why? RU only carried 12 of 13 allowed scholarships this past season, plus we KNOW Harper, Bailey, Martini, Hayes and Acuff are gone ... that is SIX open slots, with only 4 frosh coming in. So RU can aggressively try to recruit and fill at least TWO slots from the portal ASAP.

Now you might say you are not sure how much NIL will be available after retention costs. But my guess is that other than Sommerville, the staff has a pretty good idea of the "value" to retain the others. And if RU elects to not even bother to retain J. Williams, that is THREE open slots ... and surely the staff knows what it wants to do with Williams, no?

Yes …and let’s take a few of these points further

1.) I Know the WOTS about lathan …but when you evaluate his total package …ask these questions (and their are opinions on the answers to this)

-how much is lathan free throw shooting at the five to being more effective to get his shot off and be more efficient on offense ?
-how much is that positive efficiency worth in comparison to how mucb his inability to block shots worth?
And
-can he gain 15-20 lbs of muscle to become a better defensive position center …even if he can’t blocking shots . Protecting the rim is being a goalie …and blocking shots is only part of that
-will hit eventually hit those outside shots . I think so ….

He is a potential 15/8.5 guy in 2026-2027…..I think you take a chance you can make him that ….and your cornerstone to gettong this turned around

2.) what you do in the portal here ….depends on where 2026 recruting is at. As an Example ….Suppose you think you can get rippey . That affects what you want to get in the portal this year for next

 

[ancienthooper]

Ancienthooper will defend Pike from here to eternity, despite all empirical data showing he’s not really up for the job anymore.

You’ve convinced me. I’m out on Pikes and joining Team Lou.

 

[rubs]

Let’s get done to some reality and what pike has to do here to fix this …or else it’s time to move on

first …let’s get this out of the way. I love the guy and what he does and how he wants to do it….and I’m rooting hard for him . But this is big boy sports …and he gets paid for results …and the bottom line is this is not tbree years running with no NCAAs and next year is likely number four.

If we don’t fix the roster and foundation in the next 8 -9 months , it’s time to find a coach because this time next year …4 years without a ncaa bid will become 6 plus ….and if that’s what will be , it will be with a new coach under a new AD.

Second….where did my expectations go wrong this year . I went with the hope thar what we got in the portal bad enogh talent to make up for three years of recruting failures that left one player on the roster from those three classes . I kept this opinion quiet until when it was clear that the portal transfers didn’t make the difference ….that’s when I started to beat the drums on how this season was lost through the lack of recruting first with misses in the classes of 2021-2023, and then the portal misses

Derkack and acuff were ranked 4 star transfer
Martini and hayes 3 star transfer

They provided as a group neither leadership or the basketball skill to help the frosh grow up …as a group …a disaster was born requiring 4 frosh to start in the big ten

So…THE question is ….how does pike re-establish a foundation for this program ? The next 8 months are critical

My objective criteria

1.) retain the three frosh, JMike, Ogoble and Derkack. We can’t keep staring over with a new roster. We need a foundation reset and it starts with these 6 guys .

2.) add two multi year starting guards to the roster from the portal. Get out the revenue sharing , Vegas money , raise more and get it done : these will had some necessary experience ….that now 8 players

3.) the four signees the m of 2025 …to restablish a foundation of 12 for 2025-2026…with only 2 seniors

4.) then we must retain this group …must keep the 8 of the 10 underclassmen …and lose none of the top 6

5.) sign a 4 man class in the class of 2026 thsr upgrades the talent with 3 top 125 -150 players
-point guard (Rippey or bivens ?)
-wing guard (maybe Aiden Derkack)
-combo forward
-center

Pike and staff knows ALL of this and it’s up to them to get it done .

Period .

Honestly , If pike can’t accomplish this ….take a deep breath , because next year will be it for Pike and we will get another coach because the next AD will not a program style and culture which really requires player retention and upper classmen get to t4 years without a NCAA bid that will turn into 6 plus years because the foundation for future success isn’t being bullt

This is what has to Happen for this orogram to get back on track.

Pike talks about program culture , identity , foundation . Defense , rebounding and toughness .

It crumbled under his watch ….

Fortunately …you can do it in today’s college basketball climate

But it’s up to him to execute something similar to this plan …and he better do it fast because reality is , with our resources and program in the big ten…3 years without a ncaa bid and without a tangible plan and execution on how to get back there in the upcoming years …is NOT acceptable

What makes you think Pike will ever be successful! His resume sucks. In any other Big team he would be history. Player evaluation is terrible.

 

[S_Janowski]

Generally agree with your approach but don’t think point 1 is realistic (retaining all 3 frosh + Dercack, JMike and Ogbole).

Realistically we probably retain 4, or maybe 5 of that group.

Which isn’t the end of the world. Personally I’m okay if Lathan walks. He will probably eat up too much money. He’s undersized, his defense sucks and he showed very little desire or awareness on that end all year…and I’m not sure if he would buy in to the philosophy based on his lack of progression this season.

But then that means we will rely on 1-2 more transfers, and now you’re talking 3-4 total transfers.

This is where Pike struggles to identify the best pieces and our donors and fanbase come up $$$hort.

This won’t be an easy 1-2 year turnaround and with a new AD incoming…Pike is basically on a pretty short leash.

 

[RUJMM78]

Without changes in the coaching staff the lack of execution of basic fundamentals at both ends of the court will continue.Roster formation will be a big challenge especially with the loss of high double digit scoring from Bailey and Harper.Achieving a NCAA Tournament bid next season seems highly unlikely.

 

[ruinac]

A plan to recruit and retain better is not a plan.

The college sports landscape has changed and Pike hasn’t shown that he has adapted to it. What changes is he making to his own strategies and tactics to build a better roster? How is he and this staff going to get better at working the portal? What is he going to do to improve NIL donations? What changes to his own coaching philosophies will he make in this era of one or two year player rentals?

I spent some years in strategic planning in a Fortune 50 company. I saw more plans than I care to remember that were not much more than “give me more resources and I will do all things good and wonderful”.

 

[Fat Koko]

A plan to recruit and retain better is not a plan.

The college sports landscape has changed and Pike hasn’t shown that he has adapted to it. What changes is he making to his own strategies and tactics to build a better roster? How is he and this staff going to get better at working the portal? What is he going to do to improve NIL donations? What changes to his own coaching philosophies will he make in this era of one or two year player rentals?

Doesn't matter.

Pike will make no changes and pocket $24 million in paychecks. He has no motivation or incentive to change anything.

Rutgers basketball fans must donate $24 million to say goodbye to Pike or just accept he will lead the team into the 2030s.

 

[lion1983]

Yes …and let’s take a few of these points further

1.) I Know the WOTS about lathan …but when you evaluate his total package …ask these questions (and their are opinions on the answers to this)

-how much is lathan free throw shooting at the five to being more effective to get his shot off and be more efficient on offense ?
-how much is that positive efficiency worth in comparison to how mucb his inability to block shots worth?
And
-can he gain 15-20 lbs of muscle to become a better defensive position center …even if he can’t blocking shots . Protecting the rim is being a goalie …and blocking shots is only part of that
-will hit eventually hit those outside shots . I think so ….

He is a potential 15/8.5 guy in 2026-2027…..I think you take a chance you can make him that ….and your cornerstone to gettong this turned around

2.) what you do in the portal here ….depends on where 2026 recruting is at. As an Example ….Suppose you think you can get rippey . That affects what you want to get in the portal this year for next

I'd prefer to keep Sommerville. I'll get to off-season progress needs of retained players in a moment.

In re your #2 - I do disagree. Rippey is irrelevant to the NEED for 2 (two) starting level wings THIS off-season (preferrably multi-year), ... Rippey is a PG, I am pretty sure. And if not, should be able to coexist with 2 scoring wings. RU MUST have 2 scoring wings (2G/WF types, with 6'4" size at least, and at least 1 being a very good 3-point shooter who has the potential to lead the team in scoring). Or RU will ... suck ... next season.

Now ... you did not mention this in your initial post, but players returning have ot have real missions on the off-season, and at least SOME of them must accomplish those missions:

1) Sommerville - if he returns, he does not have to GAIN weight - he needs to continue to work on rebuilding his body, reshaping it into greater strength. He lost fat last off-season - which he had to do for stamina and fitness purposes. Now he has to become more muscular, stronger - not with more weight but with more muscle. He also must work seriously on 3 things: a) Consistency with his mid-range (10-15 foot jumpers) ... shoot, shoot, shoot - he gets a lot of chances for those, he has to start making them; and b) somehow work on going right up with the ball when he receives a pass ... way too many times he takes way too much time to "gather" himself and make moves when he should just go right up with the shot; c) learn to pass out of the double and triple team. I guess it is 4 things - whatever defensive drills Pikiell would have him work on, also.

2) Grant - I really think he has a chance to really grow his offensive game. So his tasks in the off-season: a) Gain 10-15 pounds and strength without losing his hops and quickness; b) Shoot, shoot shoot ... I want him taking 100m 200, 500 shots a DAY, from mid-range to 3-point range; c) MAYBE work on a little hook, especially a hook off the drive. I really thinkj Grant has the potential to become a double-digit scorer next year - but he can only do that if he can make 35% of his 3's and shoot 50% from mid-range.

3) Dortch - Um ... gain 15-20 pounds of muscle. I have no idea what he needs to work on with his offense. Richie O says his jumper is totally broken. Can that be completely rebuilt at his age? If not, he is only going to ever be a defensive and rebounding guy, plus junk baskets. Which is fine, as a role player. You can use some of those players also.

4) Davis: More development, more progress, in his shooting ... In addition to continuing his defensive drills, he should live on the FT and shooting pull-up mid-range and 3's during the off-season. Like Grant, shoot,, shoot, shoot. Make those jump shots easy with muscle memory. I think he showed progress over the 2nd half of the year, but it was not straight line upwards.

5) Derkack - Sigh ... he has got to work seriously on his mid-range game. He has GOT to pull up rather than going to the rim every drive - and he has to MAKE those shots. He is capable of getting plenty of pull-up shots ... but he has to make them ... and this past season just kept going to the rim even as the bigger players than he was accustomed to playing kept contesting and denying his FG tries. If he does not figure that out ... he will never be more than a bit player, a role player. Though he only has 1 more year, so it seems likely he is destined for a lesser role.

6) Ogbole ??? - I have no idea what to do with him, or what his off-season program should be, if any. Live in the gym with Jay Young for big man dsevelopment?

 

[BigEastPhil]

Shack - great post as always !

Retention of players is so important as their experience / knowledge of the team system becomes invaluable !

It creates / musters player development throughout their career as we saw with Caleb/ RHJ / Geo etc.

I’d love for Rutgers to emulate a system like that of Wisconsin or Iowa.

Player retentions at both schools are high and both Gard and McCaffrey have / had an offensive system that are catered towards the players they recruit - shooters and big guys that will crash the boards / rebound and do the dirty work.

I look at a guy like Blackwell from Wisconsin or Sandfort at Iowa and how they’ve grown to be solid excellent players when they were awful in their freshman - sophomore years.

Hopefully Dercack / Grant / JMike / Dortch etc follow the same path of progress !

 

[The RUT]

I think step 1 is going to be finding another associate Head Coach. I don't see Knight being here next season, and there's definitely been a void since Hobbs left, the results speak for themselves.

The roster moves shouldn't be made until that spot is settled IMO.

 

[Scarlet Shack]

I'd prefer to keep Sommerville. I'll get to off-season progress needs of retained players in a moment.

In re your #2 - I do disagree. Rippey is irrelevant to the NEED for 2 (two) starting level wings THIS off-season (preferrably multi-year), ... Rippey is a PG, I am pretty sure. And if not, should be able to coexist with 2 scoring wings. RU MUST have 2 scoring wings (2G/WF types, with 6'4" size at least, and at least 1 being a very good 3-point shooter who has the potential to lead the team in scoring). Or RU will ... suck ... next season.

Now ... you did not mention this in your initial post, but players returning have ot have real missions on the off-season, and at least SOME of them must accomplish those missions:

1) Sommerville - if he returns, he does not have to GAIN weight - he needs to continue to work on rebuilding his body, reshaping it into greater strength. He lost fat last off-season - which he had to do for stamina and fitness purposes. Now he has to become more muscular, stronger - not with more weight but with more muscle. He also must work seriously on 3 things: a) Consistency with his mid-range (10-15 foot jumpers) ... shoot, shoot, shoot - he gets a lot of chances for those, he has to start making them; and b) somehow work on going right up with the ball when he receives a pass ... way too many times he takes way too much time to "gather" himself and make moves when he should just go right up with the shot; c) learn to pass out of the double and triple team. I guess it is 4 things - whatever defensive drills Pikiell would have him work on, also.

2) Grant - I really think he has a chance to really grow his offensive game. So his tasks in the off-season: a) Gain 10-15 pounds and strength without losing his hops and quickness; b) Shoot, shoot shoot ... I want him taking 100m 200, 500 shots a DAY, from mid-range to 3-point range; c) MAYBE work on a little hook, especially a hook off the drive. I really thinkj Grant has the potential to become a double-digit scorer next year - but he can only do that if he can make 35% of his 3's and shoot 50% from mid-range.

3) Dortch - Um ... gain 15-20 pounds of muscle. I have no idea what he needs to work on with his offense. Richie O says his jumper is totally broken. Can that be completely rebuilt at his age? If not, he is only going to ever be a defensive and rebounding guy, plus junk baskets. Which is fine, as a role player. You can use some of those players also.

4) Davis: More development, more progress, in his shooting ... In addition to continuing his defensive drills, he should live on the FT and shooting pull-up mid-range and 3's during the off-season. Like Grant, shoot,, shoot, shoot. Make those jump shots easy with muscle memory. I think he showed progress over the 2nd half of the year, but it was not straight line upwards.

5) Derkack - Sigh ... he has got to work seriously on his mid-range game. He has GOT to pull up rather than going to the rim every drive - and he has to MAKE those shots. He is capable of getting plenty of pull-up shots ... but he has to make them ... and this past season just kept going to the rim even as the bigger players than he was accustomed to playing kept contesting and denying his FG tries. If he does not figure that out ... he will never be more than a bit player, a role player. Though he only has 1 more year, so it seems likely he is destined for a lesser role.

6) Ogbole ??? - I have no idea what to do with him, or what his off-season program should be, if any. Live in the gym with Jay Young for big man dsevelopment?

A lot do what we recruit in the portal will depend on what we think of Lino mark and how his roll fits in here . Yes he is a frosh …but he is right now our backcourt foundation until we add others ….im not sure how pike will use him …as a point guard ? As a combo guard ? But what we recruit in the portal needs to be complimenty skills to mark (and powers). Part of the issue this past year is we had four guards who had to have the ball in their hand (Dylan , Jwill, Jmike and Derkack) and only one shooting guard (aciff)

Must do a better job to have played with complimentary skills

 

[-RUFAN4LIFE-]

There is no point in retaining Ogbole, he's got one year left and they are better off looking for someone with at least 2 years in the portal that can actually play.

 

[RUShea]

1) Sommerville - b) somehow work on going right up with the ball when he receives a pass ... way too many times he takes way too much time to "gather" himself and make moves when he should just go right up with the shot; c) learn to pass out of the double and triple team.

This a million percent. Both issues drove me nuts all year.

 

[djrc89]

I like the constructive instead of the destructive posts. Thank you. Looking at your suggested changes I’m wondering where the significant rebounding and post defense coming from

 

[RUDivision]

Fair big picture look at the current situation.

1. How confident are you Pike and staff can actually pull this off?

 

[RU MAN]

Let’s get done to some reality and what pike has to do here to fix this …or else it’s time to move on

first …let’s get this out of the way. I love the guy and what he does and how he wants to do it….and I’m rooting hard for him . But this is big boy sports …and he gets paid for results …and the bottom line is this is not tbree years running with no NCAAs and next year is likely number four.

If we don’t fix the roster and foundation in the next 8 -9 months , it’s time to find a coach because this time next year …4 years without a ncaa bid will become 6 plus ….and if that’s what will be , it will be with a new coach under a new AD.

Second….where did my expectations go wrong this year . I went with the hope thar what we got in the portal bad enogh talent to make up for three years of recruting failures that left one player on the roster from those three classes . I kept this opinion quiet until when it was clear that the portal transfers didn’t make the difference ….that’s when I started to beat the drums on how this season was lost through the lack of recruting first with misses in the classes of 2021-2023, and then the portal misses

Derkack and acuff were ranked 4 star transfer
Martini and hayes 3 star transfer

They provided as a group neither leadership or the basketball skill to help the frosh grow up …as a group …a disaster was born requiring 4 frosh to start in the big ten

So…THE question is ….how does pike re-establish a foundation for this program ? The next 8 months are critical

My objective criteria

1.) retain the three frosh, JMike, Ogoble and Derkack. We can’t keep staring over with a new roster. We need a foundation reset and it starts with these 6 guys .

2.) add two multi year starting guards to the roster from the portal. Get out the revenue sharing , Vegas money , raise more and get it done : these will had some necessary experience ….that now 8 players

3.) the four signees the m of 2025 …to restablish a foundation of 12 for 2025-2026…with only 2 seniors

4.) then we must retain this group …must keep the 8 of the 10 underclassmen …and lose none of the top 6

5.) sign a 4 man class in the class of 2026 thsr upgrades the talent with 3 top 125 -150 players
-point guard (Rippey or bivens ?)
-wing guard (maybe Aiden Derkack)
-combo forward
-center

Pike and staff knows ALL of this and it’s up to them to get it done .

Period .

Honestly , If pike can’t accomplish this ….take a deep breath , because next year will be it for Pike and we will get another coach because the next AD will not a program style and culture which really requires player retention and upper classmen get to t4 years without a NCAA bid that will turn into 6 plus years because the foundation for future success isn’t being bullt

This is what has to Happen for this orogram to get back on track.

Pike talks about program culture , identity , foundation . Defense , rebounding and toughness .

It crumbled under his watch ….

Fortunately …you can do it in today’s college basketball climate

But it’s up to him to execute something similar to this plan …and he better do it fast because reality is , with our resources and program in the big ten…3 years without a ncaa bid and without a tangible plan and execution on how to get back there in the upcoming years …is NOT acceptable

Spot on Shack. We go back 20 years on this forum. The newer posters don’t realize you’re not only a longtime fan, but you’ve coached BB for many years. With that said, we need a new OC. In my opinion, Brandin’s style of offense no longer cuts it. Give me more of what Fran did at Iowa. The weave works well especially when you’re the inferior opponent against better teams.

In addition, I can’t fathom how Dercack and Acuff were considered 4 stars out of the portal? There’s no way they lived up to or deserved those lofty numbers.

Finally, it is vital that Pike gets 2 wingmen and a center from the portal. Also, I have my doubts that Lathan sticks around unless we’re willing to pay him the kind of money he thinks he’s worth.

 

[NewJerseyHawk]

Great post Shack. Very logical and detailed plan. Now we just need Pike to follow it. My only other wish is for Pike to bring in an assistant to run an offense. I'd love Brett McConnell or how about we convince Fran to comeback east and coach the offense. Get away from the pressure of being the head coach if he wants a break but still would like to stay involved in the game. It's my pipe dream. Similar to Martelli at Michigan under Howard.

How did Martelli do at Michigan with Howard....?? He got fired and Michigan disintegrated during that tenure....

We are watching 2 different things altogether....

Fran McCaffery is brilliant and an awful coach at the same time....if all you focus on is offense, you give up 106 points like Iowa did to s good but not great Illinois team.... and RU fans are still complaining about offense, when its the defense is what's gone away.

You simply need better players period....Pike knows how to coach....does Schiano want to help all of RU, by sharing the donation resources he has with Pike, OR, he can keep them to himself.....

Bottom line is RU will be better, but probably needs 30M to 35M of revenue sharing and NIL contributions over the next 5 years to be a 20+ win program and in the NCAAs for the next 4 years. It's not complicated.

If fans look at the top 10 teams of the B1G, 8 of the 10 teams figure to stay there MOST years....because of resources (NIL)

Michigan, MSU, UCLA, Oregon, Purdue and Wisconsin, Ohio State and Indiana

The maybes are Maryland and Illinois....

There's 8 remaining programs...

Minnesota, Washington, Iowa, Penn State, Nebraska, USC, Northwestern and RU.

Being with Adidas shut off the recruiting aspect a lot....Nike helped immensely with 2024 and 2025....and will do so in 2026 and 2027.

I think Pike and Nike for these next 2 HS recruiting classes will be the path towards jumping into the Top 8.....it was NOT going to happen with Adidas.

I can't speculate on the portal but you're also not going to get real portal targets, under an Adidas umbrella....we should do better this cycle than what happened last spring....I think even a player like Coleman Hawkins, who went from Illinois to Kansas State, was on record as saying Pike is the one coach he would have loved to play for....but he wasn't going to an Adidas school out of HS in the 2020 class and he wasn't transferring to RU, for slightly less money AND not being a Nike school.

Next 30 to 40 days of portal activity is not going to be a deal breaker for me....once I see the 2026 HS recruiting is when we should know what path we are on towards being back on track.

 

[dconifer]

Us message board posters make it sound so easy to fix programs and win hardware...

 

[Hondo77]

Us message board posters make it sound so easy to fix programs and win hardware...

Well after all, we are professionals.

 

[Scarlet Shack]

Us message board posters make it sound so easy to fix programs and win hardware...

We do , lol. No question …..

Having said that, pike is the president of Rutgers basketball division of Rutgers university …and he is about to get a new boss. And he
Is being hired after the CEO (new Rutgers president is hired )

Reality is…he is not going to have a long time to demonstrate to his new boss that he is the man to fix this . The foundation crumbled under his watch …he needs to do a lot more than apply little stucco and cement to window dress the issues ….they need to show tangible progress that it’s repaired and strong

 

[ImBadRU]

Get tall quick guards who can defend and get to the basket.

 

[Greene Rice FIG]

The one area I disagree with most. I see Ogbole as the guy I want to see retained. Over all players on the roster.

He has the size and the body and the price tag to be our shot blocking 5.

 

[Roy_Faulker]

You simply need better players period....Pike knows how to coach....does Schiano want to help all of RU, by sharing the donation resources he has with Pike, OR, he can keep them to himself.....

I don’t understand this statement. Can you please clarify?

It has been pretty evident that Rutgers’ failure to recognize the changing landscape of college athletics and the role of aggressive NIL fundraising has resulted in coaches and their supporters shouldering the load to build out the support infrastructure.

What I don’t understand here is why Schiano would be ahead in the NIL race when it is Pike who has had the more recent success and national recognition. I don’t think it is unfair to have expected the basketball program to be more developed in the space.

So - is it Schiano is hogging all the leads or Pike is not adapting and not able to keep up?

 

[djrc89]

I don’t understand this statement. Can you please clarify?

It has been pretty evident that Rutgers’ failure to recognize the changing landscape of college athletics and the role of aggressive NIL fundraising has resulted in coaches and their supporters shouldering the load to build out the support infrastructure.

What I don’t understand here is why Schiano would be ahead in the NIL race when it is Pike who has had the more recent success and national recognition. I don’t think it is unfair to have expected the basketball program to be more developed in the space.

So - is it Schiano is hogging all the leads or Pike is not adapting and not able to keep up?

Not a mod but it’s my understanding that schiano wasn’t waiting for Hobbs and cultivated our long time? donors, who , because we’re who we are , are tapped out. Can only go back to the well so many times. It’s harder here than most places. Pike didn’t do the same cultivating. Btw schiano is doing well, but he’s keeping his head above water. Hes not getting 4 star portal lineman or QBs either. It’s Effin hard here

 

[bac2therac]

I don’t understand this statement. Can you please clarify?

It has been pretty evident that Rutgers’ failure to recognize the changing landscape of college athletics and the role of aggressive NIL fundraising has resulted in coaches and their supporters shouldering the load to build out the support infrastructure.

What I don’t understand here is why Schiano would be ahead in the NIL race when it is Pike who has had the more recent success and national recognition. I don’t think it is unfair to have expected the basketball program to be more developed in the space.

So - is it Schiano is hogging all the leads or Pike is not adapting and not able to keep up?

Greg is working hard for nil

Pike not so much

 

[RutgersClassof2004]

Since the transfer portal began, Pike has shown he can’t retain anyone. Even Mr. NJ Basketball himself Mulcahy opted to bolt to Washington in his final year. Only guy he kept is JWill who most us would like to see hit the portal. The litmus test is whether he can keep Sommerville and the consensus seems to be Lathan is gone. Program is in shambles and it starts at the top.