Rutgers men’s basketball coach Steve Pikiell said Wednesday that he is being treated for cancer after undergoing successful surgery this summer, and that he plans to stay involved with the program while he goes through the next six months of chemotherapy.
In a letter to fans, Pikiell said the cancer was discovered after he “was not feeling 100 percent” a couple of months ago and visited doctors at RWJBarnabas Health. The type of cancer was not disclosed.
Athletic director Keli Zinn said there is “no set timeline” for Pikiell’s full return. Assistant coach Brandin Knight will lead the team in his absence.
Pikiell enters his 11th season at Rutgers, where he has helped pull the program out of the Big Ten cellar. When he arrived, the Scarlet Knights were searching for answers.
Since then, he has guided Rutgers to an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2021, its first in 30 years, and its first victory since 1983. The following season, Rutgers finished fourth in the Big Ten.
The Scarlet Knights are coming off a 14-20 season and a 6-14 mark in Big Ten play as the transfer portal continues to reshape college basketball. Full practices for the 2026-27 season begin later this month, and Rutgers opens on Nov. 6 against New Haven.
Pikiell’s letter reflected both gratitude and resolve. He thanked the Rutgers community for making the school feel like home and said he is leaning on his doctors, his family and “Rutgers Nation” as he finishes treatment.
“After a successful surgery, my doctors and I have a kick-ass game plan to finish treatment.”
He also said he remains confident in Knight, the staff and the players to keep the program moving while he is away at times.
“Just as I ask my team to fight and embrace challenges head-on, I’m going to attack cancer the same way. With the support of my doctors, my family, and now Rutgers Nation, I am confident we will be victorious.”
Zinn’s statement echoed that support, praising Pikiell’s determination and thanking Knight and the staff for stepping up. She said the Rutgers athletics family is behind Pikiell, Kate and their entire family, and added that everyone is looking forward to the day he returns to the sideline.
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