By John "Woods" Armwood III
The Rutgers women’s basketball team secured a solid 71-60 victory over Army in a home matchup at Jersey Mike’s Arena on Sunday. The win improved Rutgers’ record as they continue their push through the season, with the team showcasing both offensive firepower and defensive grit.
Strong First Half Performance
The game began with an energetic pace as Rutgers came out strong, pushing the tempo and quickly establishing a lead. A key factor in the first half was the Scarlet Knights' ability to capitalize on fast breaks and efficient shooting. Rutgers shot an impressive 45% from the field in the opening two quarters, building a 12-point lead by halftime.
Senior guard JoJo Lacey led the charge offensively, contributing with her scoring and playmaking. She was pivotal in setting up her teammates and hitting timely shots to keep Army at bay. Freshman guard Zachara Harris was another standout in the first half, using her size and presence in the paint to dominate the boards and create second-chance opportunities for Rutgers.
Army’s Fight Back
Army, however, wasn’t going to back down easily. The Black Knights came out more aggressive in the second half, adjusting their defensive schemes and pushing the ball upcourt. Senior guard Jade Edwards helped keep Army in striking distance with a series of quick, decisive plays, scoring crucial points and drawing fouls to keep the pressure on Rutgers.
Despite Army’s fight, the Scarlet Knights never relinquished their lead. They relied on a balanced offensive attack and continued to execute well in the half-court, particularly in the final minutes of the game.
Key Contributions and Late Game Execution
As Army attempted to close the gap, Rutgers’ defense tightened up, especially in the closing minutes. Junior Mya Pedcicord hit several key free throws to seal the victory for the Scarlet Knights. The team’s ability to control the game’s tempo and remain poised under pressure was evident down the stretch.
Destin Adams, Rutgers' versatile forward, contributed both offensively and defensively, adding valuable points while also providing crucial defensive stops. Her presence in the paint was key to limiting Army’s scoring opportunities in the second half.
On the court, Perkins likens herself to a “coach on the floor,” a role that involves ensuring her teammates are positioned correctly and executing the game plan effectively. This reflects her ability to read the game, communicate, and maintain team cohesion—key aspects of leadership. Her coaches at Rutgers, including head coach Coquese Washington, have reinforced this role, helping her understand that her contributions, both tangible and intangible, are vital to the team’s success. Washington has praised Perkins’ versatility, competitiveness, and strong work ethic, noting her as a “serious competitor” who elevates the team’s culture.
Final Thoughts
Rutgers’ 71-60 win over Army was a strong team effort, with contributions coming from multiple players. DeJulius and Harris were major factors in the team’s offensive flow, while the overall defense, particularly in the second half, was solid. Army fought hard but ultimately fell short, as Rutgers managed to maintain control and execute when it mattered most.
With this victory, the Scarlet Knights continue to build momentum as they move deeper into their season. The team will look to maintain their rhythm in upcoming matchups, with their well-rounded play on both ends of the court proving to be a formula for success.
Perkins’ leadership extends beyond strategy. Her confidence, bolstered by her teammates and coaches, has been a cornerstone of her growth. She has spoken about how their support has helped her find her own confidence, a critical trait for leading under pressure. This was evident in her performance during the 2025 WNIT second-round game against Army, where she set career highs with 13 points and 9 rebounds, stepping up as a ball-handler and initiator when the team’s guard depth was tested. Her willingness to expand her role—working on point guard skills and staying consistent in the gym—demonstrates a proactive approach to leadership, ensuring she’s prepared to contribute in multiple ways.
Key Stats:
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JoJo Lacey: 17 points, 4 assists
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Zachara Perkins: 13 points, 9 rebounds
Next up, Rutgers will look to build on this victory as they prepare for their next contest on Thursday night.