Steve Pikiell

“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,”

Steve Pikiell · said 2026-09-09 · reported 2026-09-09

Pikiell announced in a statement that he has cancer after beginning to feel unwell a couple of months ago.

“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.”

Steve Pikiell · said 2026-09-09 · reported 2026-09-09

Pikiell expressed gratitude to his doctors and described a successful surgery and treatment plan.

“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,”

Steve Pikiell · said 2026-09-09 · reported 2026-09-09

Pikiell said he will remain involved with the team during treatment while Brandin Knight serves as interim head coach.

“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.”

Steve Pikiell · said 2026-09-09 · reported 2026-09-09

Pikiell said he will attack cancer the same way he asks his team to fight and embrace challenges.