Lino Mark played his tail off

Jan 5, 2026; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Lino Mark (2) rebounds against Oregon Ducks center Nate Bittle (32) during the second half at Jersey Mike's Arena. Mark was called for a foul on the play. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

The speedy freshman has earned longer runs in these games, and Pikiell trusted him to run the point for key stretches against Oregon. It was a good piece of coaching, and Mark rewarded his confidence with 13 points on 3-of-6 field goals and 7-of-8 free throws.

"He’s getting downhill, making plays, watching more film, and getting better," Pikiell said.

Mark was able to break down Oregon’s defenders off the dribble. As importantly, he was a catalyst defensively; his ball pressure at the head of the press disrupted the Ducks to an increasing degree as the game wore on.

His hustle for loose balls ignited the crowd and was reminiscent of the way Geo Baker, Jacob Young, Caleb McConnell and Ron Harper Jr. used to get after it in this building. Mark appears to be cut from that same relentless-motor cloth.

"His play toward the end of the game was phenomenal," Francis said. "Without him, we wouldn’t be in this position."

Full article by Jerry Carino, Asbury Park Press here