The Rutgers men’s basketball team has welcomed a new member to its 2025-26 roster. Ten-year-old Trent Powers from East Windsor, New Jersey, was officially signed as this year’s Team IMPACT honoree during a press conference at the RWJ Barnabas Health Athletic Performance Center. Head coach Steve Pikiell and all fifteen players attended the event.
Chris Corso, the sports information director, opened the event by saying, “Welcome to the biggest press conference we have ever had here at Rutgers men’s basketball. We have a big signing to announce. We are pleased to announce that 10-year-old Trent Powers is joining the team today. I am super excited, everybody, let’s give a round of applause!”
Trent, who will turn 11 in November, addressed those in attendance. “Thank you, everyone, for all your support. I only met you all one time, and I already feel like I am not only a part of the team, but a part of a family,” he said.
Coach Pikiell spoke about Trent’s qualities, stating, “The first thing that comes to mind with the Scarlet Knights is toughness. Trent has the ultimate toughness. He is officially a member of The Knighthood, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome him to our program this season. Expect to see him at Jersey Mike’s Arena behind our bench for home games.”
Trent, who enjoys sports such as baseball and football, faces challenges due to muscles that do not fully function, requiring regular medical appointments with various specialists. Despite these challenges, he has quickly become involved with the Scarlet Knights, sharing his basketball knowledge with players and participating in team activities. His family attended the signing event.
Sophomore guard Max Fradkin commented on Trent’s addition to the team: “We can’t believe that we were able to acquire Trent this late in the preseason. I speak for all the guys on the team when I say we are thrilled to have him as our new teammate.”
Trent’s interests include watching movies like Happy Gilmore and television shows such as Lego Masters. His favorite athlete is Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards.
Team IMPACT, founded in 2011, works to improve the quality of life for children battling illnesses by pairing them with collegiate athletic teams. The organization has matched over 4,000 children with more than 800 colleges and universities across all 50 states, offering emotional support and leadership opportunities for both children and student-athletes. More information about Team IMPACT can be found at www.teamimpact.org.
