Kansas State makes surprising early decision for men’s basketball program

The college basketball world watched a respected basketball program make a big decision this weekend. With March Madness nearing, Kansas State University decided to make a surprising early decision.

On Sunday night, the school made the decision to let go of the men’s head basketball coach, Jerome Tang. Tang was in his fourth season as the lead man of the men’s basketball program.

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The tenure of Tang at KSU has ultimately been a disappointing one. It especially feels that way after a promising start to his time there.

Breaking: Jerome Tang is out at Kansas State, sources told @PeteThamel.

With the terms of his departure being worked out, there is nearly $19 million still remaining on his contract. pic.twitter.com/5LjwtI4VIG

— ESPN (@espn) February 16, 2026

In the 2022-2023 season, Tang led the Wildcats to a 26-10 record. They made the big tournament and surged all the way to the Elite Eight.

They lost to Florida Atlantic University by a thin margin of 79-76. The expectations were as high as ever. There were even chatters on whether they were ready to challenge in-state rival Kansas long-term.

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Tang and the Wildcats never made it back to the tournament. They followed their incredible season with a 19-15 record, getting bounced out of the NIT, and then a losing season in the 2024-2025 season.

Feb 1, 2026; Manhattan, Kansas, USA; Kansas State Wildcats head coach Jerome Tang looks on during the second half against the Iowa State Cyclones at Bramlage Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-Imagn Images

They had an opportunity to get back on track this year under Tang. However, they currently sit at 10-15. What might be most damning is their 1-11 conference record.

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What once started as a promising tenure comes to an early end.

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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/kansas-state-makes-surprising-early-152923816.html

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Publish date : 2026-02-16 15:29:00

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