Geo Baker's tenure at Rutgers was about more than just basketball—it was about transforming a program's identity, inspiring a fanbase, and laying the foundation for sustained success. While his stats speak to his skill, it was Baker's leadership, resilience, and commitment that made him an irreplaceable figure in Rutgers basketball history.
Just a kid from NH
Geo Baker, a talented guard from Derry, New Hampshire, made a name for himself with an impressive high school basketball career. Playing at Proctor Academy in Andover, NH, Baker was a standout on the court, where he earned All-NEPSAC honors and was recognized as one of the top players in New England prep school basketball. Geo Baker committed to Rutgers University on August 31, 2016. He chose Rutgers because of the opportunity to help rebuild the program under then-new head coach Steve Pikiell.
Reviving Rutgers Basketball
When Baker arrived at Rutgers in 2017, only 4 years removed from the Mike Rice scandal and years of irrelevance the program was struggling to find its footing in the competitive Big Ten conference. Wins were scarce, and the Scarlet Knights were widely overlooked in college basketball discussions. Baker, alongside head coach Steve Pikiell, helped change that narrative. His clutch performances, including game-winning shots and pivotal plays in high-stakes moments, proved he was more than capable of leading the team on the court.
During his time at Rutgers, Baker averaged 10.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 2.5 rebounds per game, but his impact went far beyond numbers. His leadership helped Rutgers secure its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 30 years during the 2020-21 season and its first NCAA Tournament win since 1983.
A Leader On and Off the Court
Baker wasn’t just a leader in the huddle; he was also a voice for athletes beyond basketball. He became one of the faces of the #NotNCAAProperty movement, advocating for athletes' rights and paving the way for discussions about NIL (name, image, and likeness) opportunities. His activism resonated across the sports world, showing that players could use their platforms to drive meaningful change.
Building a Winning Culture
Geo Baker embodied the grit and determination that have come to define Rutgers basketball. He thrived in pressure situations, hitting big shots when his team needed him most. Beyond the game, Baker set a tone of accountability and hard work that inspired his teammates.
His influence helped attract other talented players to Rutgers, such as Ron Harper Jr. and Clifford Omoruyi, who have carried the program forward. Baker’s ability to foster a sense of belief within the team and fanbase turned the Scarlet Knights into a formidable opponent in the Big Ten.
Legacy at Rutgers
Geo Baker’s legacy isn’t just about his accolades or stats. It's about how he made Rutgers basketball matter again. He transformed a program that had been an afterthought into a team capable of competing with the best in the nation.
Today, Rutgers basketball is no longer defined by its past struggles but by its bright future, built on the cultural shift that began during Baker’s era. This shift has been especially evident this year, with the Scarlet Knights attracting top-tier talents and future lottery picks like Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey. Baker’s impact will be felt for years to come, as the Scarlet Knights continue to rise in prominence both on and off the court.
For Rutgers, he wasn’t just a player—he was a culture changer. So, when you mention his name, make sure to give him the recognition he deserves.
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