Rutgers basketball coach Steve Pikiell announces cancer diagnosis and reduced duties

Steve Pikiell, the 58-year-old head coach of Rutgers men's basketball, announced that he has been diagnosed with cancer and will be reducing his coaching workload while he undergoes treatment. After a successful surgery, he outlined a treatment plan developed with doctors at RWJBarnabas Health and Memorial Sloan Kettering. Pikiell said he will continue to contribute to the team to the best of his ability and expressed confidence in associate head coach Brandin Knight, who will take on extra duties until Pikiell can fully return.

One outlet director Keli Zinn voiced support for Pikiell and his family, noting his determination and strength. The season marks Pikiell’s 11th at Rutgers, where he holds a 161-160 record, and the program hopes to end a four-year NCAA tournament drought despite his temporary absence.