K-State Wildcats play without names on uniforms against Houston

Head coach Jerome Tang explains the unusual uniform choice and scouting strategy.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Kansas State Wildcats men's basketball team took the court against the University of Houston without their names printed on the back of their uniforms. Head coach Jerome Tang explained the reasoning behind this decision, as well as why he asked two of his players to scout the Houston team instead of having his coaching staff do it.

Why it matters

This unusual uniform choice and scouting strategy by the K-State coaching staff generated curiosity and discussion among fans and media. It highlights how college basketball coaches are constantly looking for new ways to motivate their teams and gain a competitive edge.

The details

For their matchup against Houston, the Wildcats opted to remove the players' names from the back of their uniforms. Coach Tang said this was done to emphasize the team aspect and shift the focus away from individual players. Additionally, Tang had two of his players scout the Houston team, rather than having his coaching staff do it. He felt this would give the players a better understanding of the opponent's tendencies and strategies.

  • The K-State Wildcats played against the University of Houston on February 15, 2026.

The players

Jerome Tang

The head coach of the Kansas State Wildcats men's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“We wanted to emphasize the team aspect and shift the focus away from individual players.”

— Jerome Tang, Head Coach (wn.com)

“Having the players scout the opponent gives them a better understanding of the team's tendencies and strategies.”

— Jerome Tang, Head Coach (wn.com)

What’s next

The Wildcats will look to continue their successful season as they prepare for their next game against a conference rival.

The takeaway

Coach Tang's unconventional strategies, such as removing player names from uniforms and having players scout the opponent, demonstrate his commitment to fostering a team-first mentality and finding innovative ways to gain a competitive edge.