Rutgers' Second-Half Comeback Attempt Against Washington Comes Up Short

The Scarlet Knights fall to 11-17 despite a strong performance from Lino Mark

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights attempted to make a comeback several times against the Washington Huskies, but ultimately fell short 79-72. Lino Mark led Rutgers with 19 points, but the team struggled to connect on three-pointers and was dominated on the glass by Washington's Hannes Steinbach, who had a game-high 24 points and 16 rebounds.

Why it matters

This loss drops Rutgers to 11-17 on the season, making their path to the NCAA Tournament more difficult. The Scarlet Knights have struggled with consistency all year, and this game highlighted their need to improve their defense and rebounding if they want to make a late-season push.

The details

Rutgers made only 3 three-pointers in the game and shot just 39% from the field, while Washington forward Hannes Steinbach dominated with 24 points and 16 rebounds. Rutgers head coach Steve Pikiell praised Steinbach's performance, calling him a "problem" and a likely first-round NBA draft pick.

  • The game took place on February 25, 2026.
  • Rutgers will face Maryland in a rematch on March 1, 2026.
  • Rutgers' final home game of the season will be against Penn State.

The players

Lino Mark

The leading scorer for Rutgers, making 6 of his 9 field goal attempts and finishing with 19 points.

Hannes Steinbach

The Washington forward dominated the game with 24 points and 16 rebounds, causing major problems for the Rutgers defense.

Steve Pikiell

The head coach of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights, who praised Steinbach's performance and acknowledged his team's struggles with consistency this season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Washington played better than us today. But I was thankful for the crowd that showed up. It gave us some energy for the last seven minutes. Our guys played their tails off, but you can't spot a team like this that kind of points and try to come back.”

— Steve Pikiell, Head Coach, Rutgers Scarlet Knights (si.com)

“I was playing Darren at the five spot. I thought he gave us more energy, and obviously, he had a great game. He had 17 points and got to the free-throw line. I like Bryce's energy. He was fouling. Tough matchup for him, too. But Steinbach, he's a problem. He's a first-round pick. I knew it. I watched the whole film. He's leading the nation in offensive rebounds.”

— Steve Pikiell, Head Coach, Rutgers Scarlet Knights (si.com)

What’s next

Rutgers will face the Maryland Terrapins in a rematch on Sunday, March 1, at 12 pm. After Maryland, Rutgers will take on Michigan State for another road game. Their final home game will be against Penn State.

The takeaway

This loss highlights the consistency issues Rutgers has faced all season, as they struggled to connect on three-pointers and were dominated on the glass by Washington's Hannes Steinbach. If the Scarlet Knights want to make a late-season push for the NCAA Tournament, they will need to improve their defense and rebounding in their remaining games against tough opponents like Maryland and Michigan State.