With Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey projected as high NBA draft picks in 2025, Rutgers basketball has suddenly become one of the hottest names on the recruiting trail.
The Scarlet Knights are leveraging that star power to chase four-star small forward Josiah Sanders, a versatile 6’7″ prospect in the 2026 class who has begun to draw national attention.
Rutgers’ Pitch: Development and Freedom
Sanders, ranked No. 91 overall in Rivals’ 2026 rankings, is fresh off a summer with the 1 of 1 program on Puma’s Pro16 Circuit and will spend his senior year at Overtime Elite in Atlanta. He describes himself as a downhill scorer who can create for teammates, attack the rim and stretch the floor with a developing 3-point shot.
Rivals 4 SF Josiah Sanders breaks down his recruitment.
Where things stand with Rutgers & Georgetown — plus his decision to transfer to @OvertimeElite.
[READ] https://t.co/QaRbCWAPA0 pic.twitter.com/K22BQc3Xbk
— Jamie Shaw (@JamieShaw5) August 22, 2025
When discussing Rutgers, Sanders pointed to how head coach Steve Pikiell’s program balances freedom with accountability. “They let you play how you play on offense, as long as you make up for it on defense,” Sanders told Rivals. “They’ll let you play your game, but at the same time, they develop you. Whatever your weaknesses are, they’re going to try to critique you and make you better, get you ready for the next level.”
That player-development pitch is hitting harder than ever thanks to Harper and Bailey. Sanders specifically mentioned studying Harper’s ability to create for teammates and Bailey’s blend of athleticism and shooting touch, saying it’s clear why both are viewed as future lottery picks.
Georgetown, Texas State Also in the Mix
While Rutgers has momentum, they aren’t the only program recruiting Sanders. Georgetown and Texas State are also involved, though at different levels of intensity.
Where will I end up for my senior year?, stay tuned… #allglorytojesus @OvertimeElite pic.twitter.com/IfflhyjofW
— Josiah KING sanders (@josiah_sanders1) April 7, 2025
Georgetown has kept communication light, which Sanders described as “stagnant,” given the Hoyas’ already loaded recruiting class. Texas State, however, has taken a more personal approach. “We talk almost every day,” Sanders said. “They like everything about my game. They see how I play sometimes the four and five with certain teams, but they would love to play me at the wing.”
For now, no visits are locked in, but Sanders mentioned Rutgers, Texas State and Old Dominion as schools he is actively planning with.
Why Rutgers Stands Out in 2026
The Harper-Bailey effect can’t be overstated. Rutgers has historically battled for relevance in Big Ten recruiting wars, but with two recent top-10 NBA draft picks, the program has entered a new era. Recruits like Sanders are watching closely, not just for what Rutgers can do in the NCAA Tournament but also for how it can serve as a springboard to the league.
Rutgers offered Sanders in July, and the staff’s persistence, combined with the visibility Harper and Bailey bring, positions the Scarlet Knights as one of the leaders in his recruitment.
KEEP READING: Buckeyes WR Damarion Witten Backs Ex-Ohio State Recruit Dorian Jones Following Rutgers Commitment
Sanders may still be two years away from college, but his recruitment is already heating up. With his size, versatility and offensive growth, he’s the type of prospect who could thrive in Steve Pikiell’s system.
If Rutgers can ride the momentum of its future NBA lottery picks into 2026, Sanders could be the next major addition to keep the Scarlet Knights relevant on both the college and pro basketball maps.
