Prayers for Pikiell

Rutgers head coach Steve Pikiell announced he's been diagnosed with cancer. Our thoughts are with him and his family. Plus: Alabama added four-star guard Chase Lumpkin, TKR was granted a sixth year, the Georgia case was stayed, and more.

Sponsored by

Good morning everyone. Let’s get to the news.

Want chef-crafted, dietitian-designed meals ready in 2 minutes?

Try Factor, America's #1 ready-to-eat meal delivery service.

Made from ingredients you recognize. Whole food. Nothing unnecessary. Let’s eat real.

Get 50% off your first Factor box + Free Breakfast for a year *1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year while subscription active.

1. Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell diagnosed with cancer

Sometimes, there are things bigger than basketball.

And to start today’s newsletter, I want everyone to keep Rutgers head coach Steve Pikiell in their thoughts. The head man in Piscataway for the past 10 seasons announced he’s been diagnosed with cancer.

“After a successful surgery, my doctors and I have a kick-ass game plan to finish treatment,” Pikiell said in his letter. “I will still be involved with the team to the best of my ability as I navigate the challenges of the season through treatment… 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.”

Associate head coach Brandin Knight will be the interim head coach until Pikiell returns.

2. Alabama adds four-star 2027 guard Chase Lumpkin

Alabama has built a reputation for developing All-American caliber guards under Nate Oats, and the Crimson Tide may have just landed its next one.

Class of 2027 four-star combo guard Chase Lumpkin announced his commitment to Alabama on Wednesday, becoming the first member of the Tide’s 2027 class.

Subscribe to Premium to read the rest.

For just $1 a week, get all the latest news and analysis about college hoops. Don't miss out on coaching carousel insights and transfer portal coverage.

Already a paying subscriber? Sign In.