Rutgers Routs Caldwell in Preseason Exhibition
The Scarlet Knights defeated the Division II program 104-49 in Piscataway on Thursday.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Basketball
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Rutgers dominated Caldwell in a preseason exhibition game, finishing with a 104-49 victory. Five different players scored in double digits during the contest.
Why it matters
The exhibition game allowed Rutgers to test its roster depth and shooting efficiency before the upcoming regular season opener. The team showed significant control over the pace, outperforming the Division II program in rebounding, passing, and turnover margins.
Rutgers shot 53.1% from the field and 50% from three-point range, accumulating 33 points from beyond the arc. The team also maintained a +12 assist margin and forced 14 fewer turnovers than their opponents.
The players
Rutgers
The Scarlet Knights represent the university's women's basketball program competing at the Division I level.
Caldwell
This institution operates a Division II women's basketball program.
Chikae Desdunes
She is a player for the Rutgers women's basketball team who led the scoring in the exhibition match.
Jaylah Lampley
A Rutgers student-athlete who recorded a double-double during the preseason game.
Tara Daye
She is a Rutgers basketball player who recorded a double-double in the team's victory.
The details
Chikae Desdunes led the offensive effort with 17 points, while Jaylah Lampley and Tara Daye both contributed double-doubles to the lopsided win. Rutgers established an early lead, heading into halftime with a 52-24 advantage.
Timeline
October 31, 2026: Rutgers played Caldwell in a preseason exhibition game.
November 2, 2026: Rutgers plays LIU to begin the regular season.
Season Trajectory
This dominant performance sets a high baseline for the Scarlet Knights as they look to integrate new rotations ahead of conference play. The exhibition highlights the program's current depth as they build momentum following their competitive stint in the 2026 FISU America Games.
The balanced scoring attack, with five players reaching double figures, suggests a deep rotation that may stabilize individual player minutes throughout the season. The significant rebounding and assist margins indicate a highly efficient transition game that could provide betting or fantasy advantages in future matchups.
The takeaway
Large margins in exhibition games often signal a well-conditioned team capable of dictating tempo against smaller programs. Fans should watch if this high-efficiency shooting translates against higher-caliber opponents in the coming weeks.
What happens next
Rutgers begins its regular season against LIU on November 2, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on the team's schedule and development, visit the Piscataway Basketball page.
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