The Rutgers men’s basketball team is back in the national rankings this week.

After losing five straight games in January, the team has turned their season around and is currently on its first ever four-game Big 10 winning streak.

“I think our team’s playing better. We’re really advancing the ball up the floor. We’re passing the basketball better, but the most important thing we’re doing, we’re defending,” says coach Steve Pikiell.

Following a four-point win over Minnesota last Thursday, the Scarlet Knights are back in the national ranking at No. 25.

“We’ve out-rebounded all our opponents, so the most important stat you can really look at is that we’re rebounding the ball at a better clip throughout the whole game,” Pikiell says.

Pikiell says that energy is a big part of the game. And with no fans to rely on this season, the coach says that his bench has been able to provide that extra spark.

“When you have really unselfish guys that are embracing the success of the guys on the court, I think it’s really unbelievable,” Pikiell says.

Next up for Rutgers is another showdown with Iowa on Wednesday night. Iowa is ranked 15th and won their first game against Rutgers by two points.

“Going to their place, they make the most three [pointers]. They lead our league in points per game. They have the best player in the country. A lot of obstacles,” Pikiell says.

Rutgers versus Iowa starts at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday.