Rutgers basketball coach Steve Pikiell announces cancer diagnosis

13 sources • 2 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 5:39 PM

Last updated Sep 10, 2026

Rutgers basketball coach Steve Pikiell announces cancer diagnosis
Summary

Rutgers basketball coach Steve Pikiell announced on Wednesday that he is being treated for cancer. The 58-year-old coach confirmed he underwent successful surgery to remove the cancer in its entirety and will begin chemotherapy in the coming months. Pikiell plans to remain involved with the team during the 2026-27 season to the best of his ability. Associate head coach Brandin Knight has been authorized to lead the program in Pikiell's absence, though athletics director Keli Zinn stated there is no set timeline for the head coach's full return. Rutgers is scheduled to begin its season on Nov. 6 against New Haven.

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Status Watch
  • •Steve Pikiell underwent successful surgery to remove cancer.
  • •Chemotherapy treatment will continue in the coming months.
  • •Brandin Knight will lead the team as associate head coach during Pikiell's absence.
  • •Rutgers opens its 2026-27 schedule on Nov. 6 against New Haven.
Latest Updates
  • 5:39 PMYahoo Sports — Rutgers basketball coach Steve Pikiell reveals cancer diagnosis, plan for season
  • 1:38 AMYahoo Sports — Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell says he is receiving treatment for cancer
  • 10:53 PMYahoo Sports — Rutgers Head Coach Says He Will Tackle Cancer Diagnosis with a ‘Kick-Ass Game Plan’
  • 7:25 PMCBS Sports — Rutgers basketball coach Steve Pikiell diagnosed with cancer, Brandin Knight to run team during his treatment
  • 7:14 PMESPN — Rutgers basketball coach Pikiell shares cancer diagnosis, Knight to fill in
  • 7:07 PMYahoo Sports — Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell, ex-UConn player and coach, announces cancer diagnosis
  • 5:46 PMYahoo Sports — Rutgers men's basketball coach reveals cancer diagnosis
  • 5:19 PMYahoo Sports — Rutgers Basketball Coach Steve Pikiell Shares Cancer Diagnosis Following Successful Surgery
What they're saying
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Steve Pikiell is stepping back from his day-to day duties with the Scarlet Knights, but plans to be involved ‘to the best of my ability’ as he undergoes treatment

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Rutgers men’s basketball coach Steve Pikiell says he has been diagnosed with cancer after visiting doctors a few months ago when “not feeling 100%.”

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Steve Pikiell, who has coached Rutgers since 2016, shared his cancer diagnosis Wednesday, with no set timetable for his full return.

— ESPNby Jeff Borzello
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