A big reason why Rutgers was able to get the win was the return of Dylan Harper to the lineup. Harper has been battling an ankle injury, but he was able to play against Illinois. He did not disappoint.

And when fellow five-star freshman Ace Bailey threw down a dunk in transition during Rutgers’ electric start, causing the 8,000 fans in the sold-out barn to create the best home atmosphere of the season, Harper egged them on from midcourt, throwing up his arms and asking for more, more, more.

Dylan Harper returned to score 28 points, fellow freshman Ace Bailey added 18 points and 11 rebounds and Rutgers beat No. 23 Illinois 82-73 on Wednesday night.