Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell announces cancer diagnosis

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Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell announces cancer diagnosis

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Matt Wadleigh | Last updated Sep 9, 2026 1:53 PM ET

Rutgers basketball head coach Steve Pikiell announced on Wednesday that he has been diagnosed with cancer.

In a letter to the Rutgers fan base, Pikiell revealed the diagnosis, but he said he intends to be around the team this season, saying he “will still be involved with the team to the best of my ability.”

Here is part of what Pikiell said in the letter.

“Out of respect and fondness for all of you, I would like to share some personal news. A couple of months ago, after not feeling 100 percent, I visited a team of doctors at RWJBarnabas Health. After undergoing various tests, I received the difficult news that I have cancer. I am incredibly grateful to my team of doctors at RWJBarnabas and Memorial Sloan Kettering for guiding and supporting us through this difficult time. “

A letter from men's basketball head coach Steve Pikiell to Rutgers Nation. https://t.co/lvMCRvht2V #TheKnighthood️⚔️ pic.twitter.com/gkWOjHWCuK
— Rutgers Men’s Basketball (@RutgersMBB) September 9, 2026

Pikiell spent 11 seasons as the head coach at Stony Brook before coming to Rutgers for the 2016-17 season. So, Pikiell was set to begin his 11th season as Rutgers head coach.

Pikiell has a record of 161160 with the Scarlet Knights, which includes back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances in 2021 and 2022.

Rutgers athletic director Keli Zinn also released a statement, saying there is “no set timeline” for his full return, but Pikiell has the full support of the university and the athletic department.

Associate head coach Brandin Knight will serve as the interim when Pikiell is unable.

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