'He's in early and stays late': Jordan Derkack is perfect fit for Rutgers men's basketball
Known for his versatility and defensive tenacity, junior guard Jordan Derkack hopes to impact both ends of the court in his first year with the Rutgers men's basketball team.
After a standout career at Merrimack, where he won the Northeast Conference (NEC) Player of the Year and NEC Defensive Player of the Year awards, Derkack was the top player for the Warriors and is expected to become a vital role player for the Scarlet Knights.
Although Derkack never attended a Rutgers basketball game growing up, his journey began just 25 minutes from campus. He played at Spire Academy in Ohio as well as Colonia High School in Colonia, New Jersey, where he was named to the all-conference team his senior season. Despite his success, Derkack remained unranked as a prospect before committing to Merrimack.
There, the guard established himself as a defensive force, averaging more than two steals per game across two seasons with the Warriors, a significant factor in his Defensive Player of the Year honors this past season.
Derkack credits his coaches for preparing him to defend at a high level.
"It just so happens that my prep school coach's nickname was 'defensive guru," he said. "And then I went to Merrimack, where we played this awesome zone that (Merrimack head coach Joe Gallo) taught."
But Derkack wasn't just a defensive specialist. Last season, he became the centerpiece of Merrimack's offense, leading the NEC in scoring with 17 points per game.
This offseason, the guard entered the transfer portal and eventually made his way to the Banks. He said his trust in head coach Steve Pikiell and the coaching staff helped him choose No. 25 Rutgers.
"Ever since I got in touch with coach Pikiell and (assistant coach T.J. Thompson), we created this bond that we have strengthened since I entered the portal," Derkack said. "It was the connection I felt with coach Pikiell and the assistants that made Rutgers my choice."
As he adjusts to a smaller role and new defensive scheme, Derkack hopes to make an impact in a far more competitive Big Ten conference.
The guard already had a solid presence in his Knights debut when Rutgers faced St. John's in an October 17 exhibition game. He grabbed a team-high seven rebounds and made one of the game's biggest plays: a chase-down block on the Red Storm that brought the home crowd to its feet. Derkack's work ethic and versatility on both ends impressed coaches.
"He's in early and stays late," Pikiell said after the game. "He's tough, he's a multi-position guy."
Down the stretch, the junior hopes to carve out a key role with the Knights, emphasizing the leadership and toughness he brings to the team. With potential NBA lottery picks freshman guard and forward Ace Bailey and freshman guard Dylan Harper leading the charge, Derkack is excited to play alongside the young duo.
"As young as they are, they're super mature," Derkack said. "They're great teammates, so that's the best part of it."
As the season approaches for a Rutgers team with sky-high aspirations, Derkack is ready for the journey ahead.
"Super excited for my team, my teammates, my coaches," Derkack said. "(It's) going to be a big year."
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