Corey Sanders’ game-winner gives Rutgers first Big Ten win of 2016-17 (Video)
Sophomore Corey Sanders lifted Rutgers to their first Big Ten win of 2016-17 with a game-winning bank shot.
There hasn’t been a lot to cheer about for Rutgers fans since joining the Big Ten in 2014-15. Before Saturday’s game, the Scarlet Knights were 3-39 in their new conference, including an 0-6 record this year.
Despite their early struggles in conference, Rutgers found a way to triumph on Saturday against Nebraska at home. The Scarlet Knights outlasted the Cornhuskers 65-64, giving Rutgers their first Big Ten win of the year.
Sophomore Corey Sanders was the hero for Rutgers, scoring 25 points and hitting the game-winning shot with one second left in regulation.
Congratulations to @CoachPikiell on his first @B1GMBBall win!@C_Sanders3 shows why you always follow your shot: https://t.co/oe0pgRCbYN
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) January 21, 2017
The key to Sanders’ game-winner was that he followed his shot — a fundamental practice taught at all levels of basketball, and one that’s executed far too little in the college game.
As good as Sanders’ heroics were, it was a complete team effort by Rutgers. They trailed 53-46 with 8:19 remaining in regulation, but were able to play great defense and hit shots down the stretch.
Besides Corey Sanders’ 25 points, three other Scarlet Knight players scored in double-figures. Kansas State transfer Nigel Johnson notched 11, including a perfect 3-for-3 from three-point range, and Rutgers got 10 each from C.J Gettys and Deshawn Freeman.
What’s most impressive about Rutgers’ 65-64 win is that Nebraska is a very good team. So far this year, the Cornhuskers have beaten Big Ten powerhouse programs Indiana and Maryland.
If you have followed Rutgers at all this season, then you know that this team is on the upswing.
Ever since Rutgers hired former Stony Brook head coach Steve Pikiell, the program has endured a complete culture change. The team is playing with a renewed intensity, something that the program has desperately needed in past years.
So far in 2016-17, Rutgers is allowing only 65.8 points per game on defense. In contrast, last year’s Scarlet Knight team allowed an astronomical 81 points per game. It’s safe to say that this team has bought into Steve Pikiell’s vision.
Next: Knight And Day: The Rebirth Of Rutgers Basketball
The win over Nebraska moves Rutgers record to 12-8 on the year, making it the highest win total for the Scarlet Knights since joining the Big Ten.