3, 2, 1 — That’s how quick it felt the 2024-25 basketball season went for the Scarlet Knights. Despite producing two NBA-bound rookies in Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper, the team fell short of expectations. Now, fans are wondering what’s in store for this upcoming year in terms of talent and success. Will it be another show of extraordinary talent from a select group of individuals that leads to failure? Or will there be balance throughout, allowing players to engage in team basketball?
Chris Nwuli
The
Rutgers’ 2025 basketball class features a promising mix of athleticism and skill as four prospects have officially signed their Letters of Intent. Ahead of the group is Chris Nwuli, a 6-7 forward from Dynamic Prep (TX), who brings explosive athleticism and versatility on both sides of the court. Key moments of his stem from his AAU performances with Drive Nation where he showcased his ability to guard multiple positions and score in transition.
Hopeful Improvements
- Establishing consistency with his off-the catch shooting.
- Continued playmaking and handle
Lino Mark
Lino Mark, a 6-2-point guard out of Notre Dame (CA), is a shifty playmaker with high IQ and a polished handle, known for his court vision and shot creation in open space. He’ll definitely provide crucial backcourt depth and tempo control. He is a player who elevates those around him with sharp passing and high-IQ reads, especially off dribble penetration. Mark is also a capable scorer at all three levels, particularly with a pull-up jumper that keeps defenders on their toes.
Hopeful Improvements
- Physicality and Strength
- Decision making under pressure
Gevonte Ware
A 6-9 center from 1 of 1 Academy, brings raw size and rebounding tenacity, and while still developing offensively, he has shown promise to be a physical presence in the paint from day one. A traditional big man that can reshape the paint for Rutgers. His frame alone will make him a deterrent at the rim, and he’s shown episodes of dominance on the glass. He’s also a natural screen-setter, which will be a key aspect in pick-and-roll sets with Rutgers’ guards.
Hopeful Improvements
- Strength
- Post-scoring and offensive skillset
Kaden Powers
The 6-5 shooting guard from Rainier Beach (WA), is a smooth scorer with a high release and has built a reputation in the Pacific Northwest for knocking down tough shots in big moments. Has the ability to knock down shots from deep and mid-range will help stretch defenses, creating space for Rutgers’ bigs and guards. Kaden also has a great feel for spacing, allowing him to thrive in off-ball situations, catch-and-shoot sets, and late-clock moments.
Hopeful Improvements
- Defensive consistency
- Staying engaged on both sides of the floor
Harun Zrno
A transfer from Bosnia, Zrno brings a mature game and international demeanor that immediately raise Rutgers’ perimeter ceiling. A knockdown shooter (44% from three in Bosnia’s Division I), Zrno has NBA-level mechanics and the confidence to pull up from deep or bury catch-and-shoot threes. He also brings underrated playmaking, having averaged 3.6 assists per game, and uses his 6-6 frame well to rebound and be an issue for opposing offenses.
Hopeful Improvements
- Shooting off the dribble
- Stronger Handle
My Opinion
The standout of this class is clearly Chris Nwuli, who ranks 127th nationally and 22nd at his position. What separates Nwuli is his defensive upside. Specifically, he’s already an elite transition defender and shot blocker for his size, and his lateral movement allows him to switch on guards without being exposed. Offensively, he’s shown growth as a slasher and finisher, and if he continues developing a reliable mid-range jumper, he could become a two-way player in the Big Ten. Coaches and scouts have praised his work ethic and energy, describing him as the kind of culture-setter who could anchor Rutgers’ defense for years to come. Averaging 10.3 ppg in 13 games of his senior year, obviously, he’s no Dylan Harper or Ace Bailey from a talent perspective, but he adds significant versatility to this team. As a result, this 2025-26 team may not bring the same box office results as last year, but Chris and the others bring balance,e making the team coachable at the end of the day.
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