Kansas State has officially parted ways with head coach Jerome Tang following a spiraling season defined by mounting losses and mounting frustration. Multiple reports confirmed Sunday, Feb. 15, that Tang is out after the Wildcats slumped to a 10–15 overall record, including a staggering 1–11 mark in Big 12 play.
The decision marks a dramatic fall for a program that surged to the Elite Eight in Tang’s debut season in 2022–23. Just two years removed from that deep NCAA Tournament run, Kansas State now finds itself searching for stability after back-to-back underwhelming campaigns — finishing 19–15 in 2023–24 and 16–17 in 2024–25 before this season’s collapse.
Breaking point after public frustration
The tipping point appeared to come days earlier during Tang’s fiery postgame remarks following a 91–62 home loss to Cincinnati. With fans wearing paper bags over their heads in protest, Tang did not hold back.
“This was embarrassing,” Jerome Tang said. “These dudes do not deserve to wear this uniform, and there will be very few of them in it next year. I'm embarrassed for the university, I'm embarrassed for our fans, and our student section. It's just ridiculous.”
Kansas State followed that loss with a 78–64 defeat to Houston, during which players took the unusual step of removing their names from their jerseys — a symbolic gesture reflecting the program’s turmoil.
From elite eight to uncertain future
Tang’s tenure began with promise. In his first season, he guided the Wildcats to the Elite Eight before falling to eventual national runner-up Florida Atlantic.
The turnaround from preseason expectations to postseason success elevated the program’s national profile and reinforced Kansas State’s reputation for producing competitive teams under varied leadership.
Since 2010, the Wildcats have reached three Elite Eights under three different coaches — Jerome Tang (2023), Bruce Weber (2018) and Frank Martin (2010) — underscoring the program’s history of resurgence under the right leadership.
Buyout questions loom
Tang had five years remaining on his contract. His buyout is set at $18.675 million, according to the USA TODAY Sports head coaches salaries database.
However, The Field of 68’s Jeff Goodman reported on Feb. 15 that Tang and Kansas State are discussing the terms, which could alter the final payout. Multiple reports have indicated the university may have dismissed Jerome Tang “for cause,” a designation that would significantly impact financial terms.
With conference play unraveling and momentum lost, Kansas State now turns its focus to rebuilding — again — in one of college basketball’s toughest leagues.