Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper, two standout freshmen for the Rutgers Scarlet Knights, have brought a wave of excitement to the basketball program. As they take their first steps into the RWJBarnabas Health Athletic Performance Center in Piscataway, NJ, you can sense the electric atmosphere surrounding them. The sleek design of the campus reflects this energy, with its shimmering silver paneling and expansive glass structures creating an inviting environment for fans and athletes alike.
As the duo exits the facility, they’re met with a typical bustling scene of college life; students rush by, engrossed in their phones and conversations. It’s a sight that initially overlooks the towering figures of Bailey and Harper, but that changes quickly when playful banter begins.
Dylan kicks off the fun by shouting, “Free pictures with Ace Bailey! Ace Bailey’s here!” His complementing jest about posing for a photo showcases their bond, creating a light-hearted moment that sparks a small crowd.
Holding an adidas basketball with the iconic Rutgers "R," Dylan encourages peers to join in the fun, while Ace, donning a stylish black sweatsuit, embraces the camaraderie. As the line grows, it’s clear that the hype surrounding these freshmen transcends mere jest; they are on the brink of a remarkable season, generating interest long before the first tip-off.
Rutgers basketball has never experienced this magnitude of excitement before—lines forming for photos, season tickets selling out well in advance, and media day drawing over thirty journalists. This unprecedented buzz can be largely attributed to Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper, who are heralded as the No. 2 and No. 4 players in the Class of 2024, according to ESPN.
Their recruitment marked a historic moment for the Scarlet Knights, as they are the highest-ranked recruits to don the Scarlet red. The enthusiasm permeating the campus is palpable, unmistakably fueled by the duo’s charisma and skill. The energy shifts—students now recognize them as the next stars, and their journey began with a pivotal win in the Big Ten just a couple of years prior.
On a memorable day, January 15, 2023, Ace visited Rutgers and witnessed the team’s thrilling overtime victory against Ohio State. Seated behind the bench, the atmosphere was intoxicating; he later shared, “Coach Pike showed he was excited for us to come down… It meant a lot.” That encounter solidified his decision to commit on the spot, blending his passion with an overwhelming sense of belonging.
Following the victory, as the exuberance translated into commitment, Ace reached out to Dylan. “B. Knight called Dylan and said, ‘Talk to Dylan’… I just did it, it’s your turn now,” Ace recalls. The foundations of their brotherhood have long been in place, established through years of friendship and shared goals.
Dylan’s journey to Rutgers was deeply personal, intertwined with his family’s legacy at the school. Watching his brother, Ron Harper Jr., find success ignited a flame within him. “Why can’t that be me?” Dylan pondered, reflecting on the pride he felt during his brother’s tenure. The program’s resurgence over the years has motivated him to leave his mark.
Ace and Dylan have been diligent in their preparation since joining the team. Working tirelessly over the summer, they’ve built on-court chemistry and established a bond that extends beyond basketball. “We learned a lot from the summertime… we just connected,” Ace stated. Their synergy has resulted in an almost telepathic connection during games, allowing them to anticipate each other’s moves effortlessly.
As they adapt to the demands of college basketball, they emphasize the importance of precision over flashy moves. “Get to your spots,” they repeatedly affirm. Their ability to execute plays effectively, with a strong understanding of each other’s game, will be crucial in navigating the competitive Big Ten landscape.
Outside of practice, their friendship thrives—frequent Target runs and late-night outings to Shake Shack solidify their bond. The experiences they share further enhance their chemistry as they navigate the college basketball landscape together.
In the practice facility, donning their Scarlet Knights uniforms, the two continue to cultivate their camaraderie. Their laughter and playful banter uplift the atmosphere, showcasing a bond forged through shared experiences.
Their commitment to Rutgers is unshakeable. They embrace the challenge of elevating the program while staying grounded. “Welcome to the new norm. Rutgers, you ready?” With their sights set on dominance, Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper are poised to redefine Rutgers basketball, embarking on a journey that promises to be filled with excitement and potential.
Portraits by Marcus Stevens.
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