The Rutgers men’s basketball team locked up one of its most important locker room figures on Wednesday, officially re-signing 11-year-old Trent Powers for the upcoming 2026-27 season.

The East Windsor resident, who turns 12 in November, returns for his second season as the Scarlet Knights’ Team IMPACT honoree.

“The guys are just incredible,” Powers said during his official signing day press conference. “They’re really nice. They’re the nicest people I’ve ever really met.”

Powers first signed with Rutgers in October 2025 and quickly became a staple around the program, remaining present in the locker room following both wins and losses. Outside the arena, team members surprised Powers’ classmates by attending his school graduation over the summer.

Because of a medical condition that prevents his muscles from fully functioning, Powers requires regular care from specialists in cardiology, endocrinology and pulmonology. He credited his teammates with helping him stay resilient during tough moments.

“Last year there were some tough moments, and after a game we lost, the guys would just continue to put a smile on around me and be happy to see me,” Powers said. “I said to my mom, ‘I should be more like this and be happy all the time.’”

Powers formed a particularly close bond with graduate forward Darren “Jun” Buchanan Jr., whom Powers previously nominated for Team IMPACT’s Teammate of the Year award.

“We just seemed to click from the first time that we met,” Powers said. “Even when he leaves here, I’m hoping that I can still keep in touch with him.”

Powers also offered words of encouragement to head coach Steve Pikiell, who is facing his own personal health battle this season: “I know his and mine aren’t exactly the same, but I’m wishing him the best of luck. Kick cancer in the butt.”

Looking ahead to the upcoming campaign, Powers expressed big goals for the program after last year’s Big Ten Tournament victory.

“This year, we’re going to set our sights on winning a March Madness game,” Powers said.

Powers and the Scarlet Knights officially open the 2026-27 regular season on Friday, Nov. 6, against New Haven at Jersey Mike’s Arena in Piscataway.