Rutgers men's basketball coach Steve Pikiell reveals cancer diagnosis

Rutgers men's basketball coach Steve Pikiell announced Wednesday that he was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year.

Pikiell did not reveal what type of cancer he has in a statement posted to Rutgers' website, but said that he had recently undergone "a successful surgery" and that he and doctors "have a kick-ass game plan to finish treatment." If and when Pikiell is unable to coach in 2026-27, assistant coach Brandin Knight will be the team's interim coach.

"I will still be involved with the team to the best of my ability as I navigate the challenges of the season through treatment," Pikiell's statement said. "I have great confidence in Coach Knight, the rest of the talent staff, and our exceptional student-athletes. I know they will do an amazing job leading our program when I'm not able to."

Pikiell has been Rutgers' basketball coach since arriving from Stony Brook ahead of the 2016-17 season. The Scarlet Knights went 14-20 in 2025-26 and are 161-160 overall in his time with the team.

In Pikiell's 10 seasons in charge, Rutgers has made the NCAA tournament twice. Those appearances came in 2021 and 2022.

Knight has been the team's associate head coach for the past five seasons and was hired as an assistant when Pikiell joined the team. The former Pitt guard was an assistant at his alma mater for eight seasons before joining Rutgers.

"Those of us who know Steve, know the determination and strength he brings to everything he does," Rutgers athletic director Keli Zinn said. "I know he will bring that same spirit to every treatment and every day ahead. We are grateful to Coach Knight for his willingness to step up during this challenging time and to our entire staff for their great care and compassion for Coach and our student-athletes. There is no set timeline for Coach Pikiell's full return, but we look forward to the day when he is back on our sideline."