Rutgers fans extend support to LA as Ace Bailey and co observed a moment of silence for victims of wildfires

The Rutgers community, including Ace Bailey and the team, extended its support to victims of the wildfires raging across southern California. The Scarlet Knights observed a moment of silence prior to their game against UCLA on Monday to honor the victims of the devastating fires. The wildfires have disrupted regular life and operations across Los Angeles, including the UCLA campus.

Rutgers fans at Jersey Mike's Arena expressed their solidarity with those impacted by the disaster. They were holding signs and banners with messages of hope and support for the people of LA.

The Scarlet Knights also posted a message of support on Instagram with snaps of the team's pre-game moment of silence.

"Our thoughts are with all those affected by the wildfires in Los Angeles ❤️🤝," the caption read.

The wildfire that started a week ago remains largely out of control and has left thousands of homes destroyed and at least 24 people dead.

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Ace Bailey gives Rutgers much-needed spark as they end drought

Freshman guard Ace Bailey led a struggling Rutgers team (9-8, 2-4 Big Ten) to a 75-68 victory over UCLA (11-6, 2-4 Big Ten) on Monday night. Both teams came in looking to snap a three-game losing streak.

The Scarlet Knights were able to get back on track following Bailey's strong showing. He scored a game-high 20 points along with 10 rebounds and 3 blocks to record his fifth double-double of the season. The 6-foot-10 Tennessee native had his way inside, making 7 of 13 shots, one 3-pointer and converting all five of his free throws.

Steve Pikiell's squad trailed at the break but stormed back in the second half, outscoring the Bruins 45-35 in the final 20 minutes.

"Great win, great environment, and proud of our guys. It's been a tough couple of weeks, and these guys just kept fighting," Pikiell said postgame (0:46). "They've been doing a tremendous job in practice, and they keep plugging, so I'm proud of them."

Rutgers lost 8 of 12 games prior to Monday. Their next game is on Thursday against Nebraska (12-4, 2-3 Big Ten) at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln.