Rutgers head coach Steve Pikiell has expressed confidence in the progress his guard corps has made during the offseason, highlighting the work of Lino Mark, Tariq Francis and Kaden Powers.
Mark, who has added weight and refined his shooting and ball‑handling, is expected to bring a more physical presence, while Francis averaged 17.0 points per game in his debut Big Ten season and continues to build on that foundation.
Powers, who started 15 games last year, has taken a notable physical leap this summer, adding strength that should translate into increased efficiency on the court.
Guarding the Future
Pikiell also noted that the team is actively pursuing two additional players to round out the roster, though the eligibility of transfer Luis Duarte remains pending, creating a cloud over the final composition.
Overall, the coaching staff’s optimism reflects a belief that the returning guards will provide a solid backbone for the upcoming campaign, even as the program navigates the uncertainties of roster changes.