A New Chapter in the Scarlet Knights’ Schedule
Rutgers University’s men’s basketball program has announced its non‑conference schedule for the 2026‑27 season, adding two new opponents to the roster.
The Scarlet Knights will open the non‑conference portion at home against St. Peter’s on December 13, followed by a later meeting with Delaware State on December 29, both games to be played at the university’s main arena.
The decision comes after Rutgers posted a 65‑50 victory over Delaware State to close out last year’s non‑conference slate, a result that underscored the team’s improved depth.
A look back at the most recent encounter with St. Peter’s reveals a 75‑65 win for Rutgers in 2024, a game that helped the Scarlet Knights maintain momentum heading into the next season.
St. Peter’s entered the previous season with a 17‑12 record and finished second in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, while Delaware State struggled to an 8‑23 finish and a last‑place finish in the Mid‑Eastern Athletic Conference.
Beyond the two new home games, Rutgers’ schedule also includes road trips to face Bryant, Army, New Jersey Institute of Technology and a pair of power‑conference opponents — Syracuse and Seton Hall — providing a challenging early‑season test.
The Scarlet Knights will also compete in the Players Era Tournament, where they are slated to meet Houston, Notre Dame and an as‑yet‑unnamed third team, a showcase that promises high‑profile matchups.
Coach Craig Epstein emphasized the non‑conference slate’s role in preparing the team for Big Ten competition, noting that the mix of mid‑major programs and power‑conference foes will test the squad’s versatility.
Fans can expect a lively atmosphere as the home games against St. Peter’s and Delaware State are already on sale, with ticket packages designed to accommodate the growing interest in Rutgers basketball.