Freshman Dylan Harper achieved a remarkable milestone by recording the first triple-double for Rutgers basketball since 1983, contributing to the Scarlet Knights’ impressive 91-64 victory over Columbia on Monday night. Ace Bailey led the scoring with 24 points, showcasing his talent alongside Harper’s historic performance.
With just over five minutes left in the game, Harper secured his 10th rebound and immediately assisted Bailey for a layup, marking the momentous occasion. This triple-double echoes the achievement of former star Roy Hinson, who last accomplished this feat with 24 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 blocks against Rhode Island on March 2, 1983.
Harper concluded the game with 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 12 assists for Rutgers, which improved its record to 8-5 following a narrow 83-82 defeat to Princeton. His shooting was particularly effective, making 4 of 7 three-pointers. Teammates Jamichael Davis and Lathan Sommerville also contributed significantly, each scoring 11 points.
Bailey’s strong start included 13 points within the first 12 minutes, helping the Scarlet Knights establish a 27-18 lead. They went into halftime with a 44-35 advantage and later extended their lead dramatically when freshman Peter Noble hit a long three-pointer on his first shot attempt of the season.
Columbia attempted to rally, with Kenny Noland’s three-pointer reducing the deficit to 54-46 early in the second half. However, Harper quickly responded, scoring four consecutive points to ignite a 10-2 run, capped by another three-pointer, which pushed the score to 64-48. Rutgers maintained a comfortable lead for the remainder of the game.
Geronimo Rubio De La Rosa led Columbia with 17 points, while Noland added 16 points, including four three-pointers, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Rutgers’ strong performance.
Having wrapped up their nonconference schedule, Rutgers is set to face Indiana in Big Ten action on Thursday. Meanwhile, Columbia will host Cornell on January 11 for their Ivy League opener.
