Rutgers men’s basketball coach Steve Pikiell announced Wednesday that he has been diagnosed with cancer, saying he underwent surgery and will now step back from full coaching duties as he continues treatment.
Pikiell, 58, said he began feeling unwell a couple of months ago and sought medical attention from a team of doctors at RWJBarnabas Health, based in New Brunswick, New Jersey.
“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,” Pikiell said in a statement.
Pikiell credited his medical team for guiding him through the diagnosis and treatment plan.
“I am incredibly grateful to my team of doctors at RWJBarnabas Health and Memorial Sloan Kettering for guiding and supporting us through this difficult time. After a successful surgery, my doctors and I have a kick-a– game plan to finish treatment.”
Associate head coach Brandin Knight will take over as interim head coach while Pikiell recovers. Pikiell, who was entering his 11th season leading the Scarlet Knights, said he intends to remain connected to the program as much as his health allows.
“I will still be involved with the team to the best of my ability as I navigate the challenges of the season through treatment. I have great confidence in Coach Knight, the rest of the talented staff, and our exceptional student-athletes. I know they will do an amazing job leading our program when I’m not able to,” Pikiell said.
He added that he plans to face the illness with the same intensity he asks of his players.
“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.”
Pikiell thanked his team, Rutgers President William Tate and athletic director Keli Zinn for their support and said he looks forward to returning to the sideline.
Zinn, in a statement, asked the Rutgers community to rally around Pikiell and his family.
“On behalf of the Rutgers Athletics family, I want to express our love and support for Coach Pikiell, Kate and their entire family as he fights cancer. Those of us who know Steve, know the determination and strength he brings to everything he does. I know he will bring that same spirit to every treatment and every day ahead,” Zinn said.
“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. I ask that we all lift the Pikiell family with encouragement and support.”
Pikiell has led Rutgers to two NCAA Tournament appearances and holds a 161-160 record over 321 games with the program. Before arriving in New Brunswick, he spent 11 seasons as head coach at Stony Brook.
