Men’s Basketball Welcomes Merrimack G Jordan Derkack - Rutgers University Athletics (2024)

Men's Basketball Apr 22 Chris Corso

PISCATAWAY, N.J. – The Rutgers men's basketball program has officially added another dynamic playmaker to the 2023-24 roster.

Jordan Derkack, a 6-foot-5 guard, 205-pound guard from Colonia, New Jersey, brings two years of eligibility and a proven track record of excellence on both ends of the court in the Northeast Conference to the Scarlet Knights roster.

Derkack joins Rutgers after a stellar two-year career at Merrimack, where he established himself as one of the top players in the conference. He averaged 17.7 points per game while playing 32 games and contributing 33.0 minutes per game. He grabbed six rebounds per game, tallied 3.9 assists, and shot 46.6 percent from the floor.

"We are excited to welcome Jordan Derkack to The Knighthood," Rutgers head coach Steve Pikiell said. "Jordan grew up in New Jersey and has strong ties to our program. We are excited to add another student-athlete his caliber who brings the ability to finish around the basket and play outstanding defense. Jordan has elite size for a ball-handler and can do some special things on the defensive side of the ball."

Derkack said that playing college basketball twenty minutes from where he grew up in Colonia is a blessing and he especially looks forward to having his family members at his games.

"Ever since I got in touch with Coach Pikiell and Coach T.J. Thompson, we created this bond that we have strengthened since I entered the portal," Derkack said. "I was really happy to get out there and see the facilities. It was the connection I felt with Coach Pikiell and the assistants that made Rutgers my choice. It is home."

In the 2023-24 season, Derkack acquired multiple accolades, including NEC Player of the Year, NEC Defensive Player of the Year, and a spot on the NEC First Team. On the defensive end, Derkack is a standout player, known for his ability to create turnovers and contribute both on and off the ball. His defensive power aligns perfectly with Pikiell's emphasis on defensive intensity.

"I am going to bring leadership and I have brought that to wherever I have been," Derkack dais. "I am a good person every single day. I bring toughness. On the court, I do a lot of things pretty well. I can stretch the floor a bit, I am good at getting people to their spots and making the game easier for other people. I also like to describe myself as a competitor. I am super competitive. I hate to lose more than I love to win."

Derkack has enjoyed watching some of the greats that have come through Rutgers like Geo Baker and Caleb McConnell. Derkack loves the emphasis on defense at Rutgers and is very excited to take his talents to the Big Ten Conference.

"Most of the coaches thatI have played for in my career have been defensive-oriented," Derkack said. "I have learned a lot of cool techniques from a lot of different people. I've gelled that all into one mold, and I've taken advice from many people and tried everything. I think that being coached by Coach Pikiell is going to be a layer to this. I don't see myself hitting a plateau, I see myself going higher and higher and I think the sky's the limit."

His versatility was on full display with a season-high performance against LIU on Feb. 8 of 34 points, 10 rebounds, 11 assists, and 5 steals, showcasing his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. Derkack scored in double-digits in 26 games last season and eclipsed 20 points in 11 games.

One of Derkack's standout qualities is his scoring ability, specifically in transition. Known for his quickness, he excels at finishing at the rim and can deliver electrifying dunks when given the opportunity.

During his freshman year in 2022-23, Derkack made his initial strides in the NEC, earning recognition as NEC Co-Rookie of the Week and a spot on the NEC All-Rookie Team. He played 18 games, showing his ability to contribute to various aspects of the game. Derkack also maintained an impressive shooting percentage of 47.9 percent, showcasing his efficiency as a scorer.

Derkack is the third player to join the Scarlet Knights via the transfer portal this offseason following grad Princeton forward Zach Martini and grad Eastern Michigan guard Tyson Acuff.

Derkack said he's never been to a Rutgers game at Jersey Mike's Arena, but he's heard about the environment and he can't wait to get to know the fans in Piscataway.

"Being a New Jersey kid, I've dreamed of moments like this, where the crowd is with me and not with the other team," Derkack said. "I am excited for this opportunity. I promise I won't put shame on Rutgers. I will represent New Jersey with my life."