Rutgers men’s basketball coach Steve Pikiell announced Wednesday that he had surgery this summer after being diagnosed with cancer.
Pikiell, 58, will undergo chemotherapy over the next several months as part of his recovery. He did not specify the type of cancer he is battling.
“A couple of months ago, after not feeling 100 percent, I visited a team of doctors at RWJBarnabas Health (in Livingston, N.J.). After undergoing various tests, I received the difficult news that I have cancer,” he said. “… After a successful surgery, my doctors and I have a kick-ass game plan to finish treatment.”
Associate head coach Brandin Knight will serve as the interim head coach as Pikiell continues his recovery.
“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 said. “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.”
Rutgers athletic director Keli Zinn said there is no set timeline for Pikiell’s return to the bench.
Pikiell joined Rutgers prior to the 2016-17 season and guided the Scarlet Knights to the NCAA Tournament during the 2020-21 and 2021-22 campaigns. He owns a 161-160 record in 10 seasons at Rutgers.
The Scarlet Knights open the 2026-27 season against New Haven on Nov. 6.