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Rutgers University men's basketball head coach Steve Pikiell has shared that he is battling cancer ahead of new season.
Pikiell, who has served as the Scarlet Knights' head coach for ten years, announced his diagnosis in an emotional statement to the school's fanbase on Wednesday. He did not reveal what type of cancer he had been diagnosed with.
The longtime coach will step away from the team with associate head coach Brandin Knight taking charge while he seeks treatment.
'Since my family and I arrived On the Banks a decade ago, the Rutgers community has embraced us,' the 58-year-old wrote.
'The incredible young men in our basketball program, the dedicated coaches, the entire staff throughout the athletic department, the campus faculty, and of course, the passionate and generous fans, many of whom are now friends. You have all made Rutgers feel like home.'
He continued, 'Out of respect and fondness for all of you, I would like to share some personal news.'
Rutgers University men's basketball head coach Steve Pikiell has been diagnosed with cancer
The 58-year-old is entering his 11th season in charge of the Scarlet Knights
Pikiell said that he began 'not feeling 100 percent' during the college basketball offseason, leading to him undergoing extensive testing.
He shared that he had undergone 'successful surgery' after his diagnosis and will continue to finish treatment away from the team.
'My doctors and I have a kick-ass game plan to finish treatment,' he assured fans.
'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 continued. '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.'
He added, '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 is entering his 11th season as Rutgers' head coach, having led the Scarlet Knights to the NCAA Tournament twice - marking their first two March Madness appearances in 30 years.
However, in recent years, the team has witnessed a slump under his tenure. Rutgers has suffered three straight losing campaigns.
'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,' athletic director Keli Zinn said in a statement.
'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. 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.'
