Rutgers plays host to Illinois in Big Ten men's basketball action, Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025, in Piscataway, N.J.

The Scarlet Knights have two of the nation's top prospects in Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper, and they seemed destined to contend for the Big Ten. Well, things haven't really gone to plan for Rutgers so far this year as they came into Wednesday night's game against #23 Illinois at 11-11 overall and 4-7 in Big Ten play.

Dylan Harper returned to score 28 points, fellow freshman Ace Bailey added 18 points and 11 rebounds and Rutgers beat No. 23 Illinois 82-73 on Wednesday night.

With the win, Rutgers is now 12-11 overall on the season and 5-7 in Big Ten play. They will look to start a winning streak on Sunday as they hit the road to take on Maryland, who is playing well right now. That one won't be easy, and they will once again need big games from Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper.