Rutgers Basketball: Former Ohio State Commit Guard Takes Redshirt Year
Rutgers basketball is making adjustments to its lineup for the upcoming season. Head coach Steve Pikiell is refining the team’s rotation. One notable change involves freshman guard Dorian Jones, who will take a redshirt year.
Dorian Jones: From Ohio State to Rutgers
Dorian Jones, a 6-foot-4, 160-pound guard from Cleveland, joined Rutgers in late August. He previously committed to Ohio State but decommitted in June due to academic concerns. Upon joining Rutgers, there were uncertainties regarding his NCAA eligibility.
Challenges Faced by Jones
Jones faced several hurdles as he transitioned to Rutgers:
- He missed the entire summer practice session.
- Concerns regarding the adequacy of his academic transcripts.
- Height versus weight challenges as he is considered underweight.
- Competition for playing time, as Rutgers has five other guards, four of whom are ranked higher on the depth chart.
Despite these challenges, Jones will continue to practice with the team during his redshirt year. This decision allows him to develop while reducing immediate competition for playing time.
Rutgers’ Rotational Strategy
With 14 scholarship players on the roster, Pikiell plans to implement a significant rotation strategy. However, it remains challenging to maintain effective gameplay with such a large roster. Even the best teams typically do not utilize more than 13 players regularly.
By redshirting Jones, Rutgers can focus on its existing talent while allowing him the opportunity to acclimate to college basketball effectively.
This adjustment highlights Rutgers’ strategic approach as it prepares for the 2025-26 season, aiming for a successful campaign in collegiate basketball.
