As Rutgers gears up for the 2025-26 season, all eyes are on incoming freshman Lino Mark, a dynamic 6-foot-2, four-star guard ready to take over the reins from former Scarlet Knight standout Dylan Harper. Rutgers, coming off a 15-17 season led by Ace Bailey, is looking to build a winning culture, and Mark’s arrival adds an exciting spark to the program.
This past summer, Mark showcased his scoring and leadership at the Smart-National Basketball Training Center (NBTC) Tournament in the Philippines. Playing for Fil-Am Nation, he exploded for 32 points in the championship game, finishing the tournament averaging 26 points and nine rebounds per game. His stellar performance earned him the Ato Balodato Award for Most Outstanding Player for Division One, highlighting his talent on an international stage.
Proud of his Filipino heritage, Mark shares a cultural bond with former Rutgers star Dylan Harper, who played a pivotal role in recruiting him to Rutgers University. That connection has helped Mark quickly settle into the team and begin building a strong relationship with head coach Steve Pikiell.
Before Rutgers, Mark led Notre Dame Prep in Sherman Oaks, California, averaging 15.1 points and 3.2 assists per game during the 2025 season. Known as a pound point guard with explosiveness, speed, and a high basketball IQ, Mark finished his high school career with over 1,000 points scored. At Rutgers, he will join forces with fellow top prospect Tyran Stokes, a five-star recruit in the class of 2026, forming a promising backcourt duo.
In an interview with The Hoop Post on October 6, 2024, Mark emphasized his desire to bring a winning mentality to Rutgers. “I want to help the program compete at the highest level and create a culture where every player believes in themselves and each other,” Mark said. His competitive nature, international experience, and leadership qualities make him a player to watch in his freshman season.
As Rutgers looks to improve on last season, Lino Mark offers a combination of skill, athleticism, and leadership that can energize the Scarlet Knights. Fans should keep a close eye on Mark as he looks to translate his high school and international success into college basketball impact, while honoring his Filipino roots and continuing to build strong relationships on and off the court.
