PISCATAWAY, N.J. — Freshman standout Dylan Harper scored 20 points in his long-awaited debut to lead No. 25 Rutgers to a 75-52 victory over Wagner on Wednesday night in the season opener for both schools.
Harper, a combo guard, is considered one of the top freshmen in the country and, along with fellow freshman forward Ace Bailey, was a key reason the Scarlet Knights entered the season ranked 25th in the standings.
He is the younger brother of fellow Rutgers star Ron Harper Jr., and his father, Ron Harper Sr., is a 15-year NBA veteran.
Rutgers is without Bailey, who was sidelined with an undisclosed injury sustained during Monday's practice. His status is day to day.
Keyonte Lewis led Wagner with 12 points.
For Rutgers, PJ Hayes had 12 points and Lathan Somerville had 11 points and eight rebounds. Jeremiah Williams added 10 points for the Scarlet Knights.
Harper's only drawback was missing five of six free throw attempts.
