The Rutgers men’s basketball program returned from its 11 day overseas trip this past weekend. Traveling and playing in the Senegal and Portugal was a tremendous opportunity for everyone who was part of it. Credit head coach Steve Pikiell for creating an itinerary that was unique and not typical of most college basketball overseas trips that take place. The hope now is that the once in a lifetime experience brings the 2023-2024 team together in a way that leads to a special season. That’s exactly what happened four years ago for Rutgers following an overseas trip to Spain in 2019.
With several newcomers on the roster and the possibility of making a significant shift in how Rutgers players on offense, Pikiell has had a busy offseason. He hired a new assistant coach in Marlon Williamson, added multiple players in the transfer portal, brought in the highest rated recruit in years in Gavin Griffiths, added Princeton on the non-conference schedule and plenty more all while losing two starters in the summer and planning the overseas trip that just finished.
Pikiell returned as a guest on The Scarlet Faithful podcast to discuss these topics and more. Our discussion included his recap of the experience in Senegal and Portugal, a review of the roster and style he plans to play on offense, the improved non-conference schedule, Big Ten expansion, NIL, the wild offseason in college basketball and more. In addition, Pikiell discussed the recent report regarding Jeremiah Williams.
Listen and watch below. Thanks to coach Pikiell for taking time to come back on The Scarlet Faithful podcast.
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