New Era, Hot Start: Pradia’s Raptors Soar to 5-1, Validating Preseason “Dark Horse” Buzz
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By Addy Adebo
An influx of new talent, a fresh team identity, and a hot start have the Rutgers Scarlet Raptors men’s basketball team quickly evolving from an NJAC afterthought to a real conference contender. Under seasoned veteran Head Coach Stuart Pradia, the Scarlet Raptors have raced to a 5-1 record in the early season, showcasing a strong, team-first style of basketball that is grabbing the league’s attention.
The on-court results have been immediate, starting off the season with a 75-71 comeback win at Alvernia on November 8th. The team then rattled off three more wins, including a decisive 95-73 victory over Immaculate on November 22nd to reach 5-1. This start aligns well with the team’s recognition as the “dark horse” in the NJAC’s preseason coaches’ poll, a title they are enthusiastically embracing.
The Raptors’ collective grit and tough defense was on full display during the “Wright Tournament” at Amherst College. After losing to the host team, the Raptors battled back to win the consolation game, driven by a career-high 28-point performance from Chase Downes, who received All-Tournament honors. The team’s defensive effort was acknowledged when junior Edmundo Senft was named NJAC Defensive Player of the Week on November 17th for his relentless play.
Coach Pradia, who was formerly an assistant at NJAC rival Kean University, has established a straightforward, effort focused philosophy since he was hired back in 2019. He said, “My goal is to mold Rutgers-Camden into one of the top programs in the NJAC,” drawing from his deep understanding of the conference.
Pradia’s message has clearly resonated with the players, Freshman Mehki Carter summarizing his coach’s approach: “he likes to keep things simple and the game plan clear.”
The players have fully embraced this team-focused mindset. When asked about the team’s heart, Carter remarked on the shared attitude: “We don’t have one single heartbeat or soul; we need every player on the team to reach our best.” Carter also noted, “Our weakness is that our tallest player is only 6’5, but we can overcome that with our effort.”
The team’s goals, as expressed by Carter, focus on daily improvement: “to reach our best each and every day.” This commitment to everyday growth serves as the foundation for the program’s high ambitions. However, the schedule offers no break. The young season already includes a tough 95-56 exhibition loss to NCAA Division I Saint Joseph’s University on November 25th, a game that while doesn’t count against the season standings provides a high-level measuring stick and valuable lessons.
As the Scarlet Raptors move deeper into their conference schedule, a solid foundation is clearly in place. With the new young talent that has quickly embraced Coach Pradia’s established vision they are well on their way towards being a legitimate contender through a tough defensive identity and a united team embracing their strengths. These 2025 Scarlet Raptors are not just looking to surprise opponents—they aim to outdo them.
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