Rutgers Basketball’s Geo Baker Named B1G Freshman of the Week

On Monday afternoon, Rutgers men’s basketball freshman guard Geo Baker was named Big Ten Freshman of the Week for his performances in wins over Fordham and #15 Seton Hall last week.

Baker had 12 points, 4 assists, and 3 steals in the victory over Fordham last Tuesday. He followed that up with one of his best games in a Rutgers uniform in Saturday’s comeback win over #15 Seton Hall, in which he scored 17 points, 4 assists, and 4 rebounds. Baker made several key shots in the second half when Rutgers outscored the Hall 39 to 23 and ended the game on a 17-2 run.

From the press release:

Baker leads all Big Ten freshmen in assists (3.8) and minutes played (31.5), while placing ninth overall in the league in steals (1.3). He is second on the team with 12.5 points per game, and has scored in double figures in six straight games.

Baker has been receiving praise in recent days before this honor as well.

Baker came to Rutgers as a 3-star prospect, but was not heavily recruited by high major programs coming out of the New England Prep Circuit. Through 13 games in his freshman campaign, it is clear that Baker has a chance to become a star at Rutgers. He is averaging 12.5 points, 3.8 assists, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 31.5 minutes per game. In addition, he is shooting 43.0% from the field, 33.3% from three-point range, and 80% from the free throw line.

However, it’s been more than just statistics that have proved his worth to this team. Baker’s poise and ability to run the offense, allowing Corey Sanders to play more off the ball, has been crucial to the team’s success this season. His team first attitude and fearless play on the court has been a major addition to this program. Today’s honor should be the first of many for the freshman guard during his Rutgers career.