Preview: Delaware State at Rutgers PISCATAWAY, N.J. (Interstat) — Rutgers looks to build on a dramatic victory and climb above .500 when it hosts Delaware State in a nonconference men’s basketball matchup Monday at Louis Brown Athletic Center. The Scarlet Knights (6-6) edged Penn 70-69 on Dec. 20, snapping a three-game skid. Guard Tariq Francis powered the win with a career-high 34 points, showcasing the explosive scoring ability he will aim to replicate. Francis averages 13.5 points per game but has been inconsistent, held to single digits in three of the team’s six losses. Rutgers’ schedule has been formidable, with losses to ranked opponents Purdue and Michigan. The Knights have defended their home court well, however, posting a 5-2 record in Piscataway. Delaware State (5-8) enters having won three of its last four, including a 73-61 victory over Holy Family on Dec. 21. The Hornets are led by guard Ponce James, a versatile playmaker averaging 15.5 points and 5.5 assists per game. In his last four contests, James has tallied 62 points and 18 assists, including a 21-point, 6-assist effort in an overtime win against Delaware. The Hornets have struggled on the road, going 1-6 away from home with the lone win coming at Longwood on Dec. 13. Their defense will be tested by a Rutgers team averaging 69.8 points per game at home. This game serves as a final tune-up before both teams enter conference play. Rutgers opens its Big Ten slate Jan. 2 against Ohio State, while Delaware State begins Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference action Jan. 3 against Coppin State. Monday’s contest tips off at 7 p.m. EST.