Kansas State Fires Head Basketball Coach Jerome Tang

The Wildcats part ways with Tang after a disappointing four-year tenure.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Kansas State has fired head men's basketball coach Jerome Tang after four seasons. Tang led the Wildcats to the Elite Eight in 2022-23 but the program failed to sustain that momentum, missing the NCAA Tournament in 2025 and struggling to a 10-15 record (1-11 in Big 12 play) so far this season. The two sides reportedly remain in discussions over the $18 million buyout.

Why it matters

Kansas State has struggled to find long-term stability in its men's basketball program since the departure of previous head coach Bruce Weber. Tang's dismissal marks another reset for the Wildcats as they look to rebuild and regain their footing in the highly competitive Big 12 conference.

The details

Tang was openly critical of his team's effort following a blowout loss earlier this week, saying 'This was embarrassing. These dudes did not deserve to wear this uniform. I'm embarrassed for the university, I'm embarrassed for our fans.' The Wildcats have lost seven straight games and 11 of their last 12, falling into a tie for last place in the Big 12 standings.

  • Kansas State fired Jerome Tang on February 16, 2026.
  • Tang led the Wildcats to the Elite Eight in the 2022-23 season.

The players

Jerome Tang

The former head men's basketball coach at Kansas State, who was fired after four seasons with the program.

Bruce Weber

The previous head men's basketball coach at Kansas State, whose departure led to instability in the program.

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What they’re saying

“This was embarrassing. These dudes did not deserve to wear this uniform. I'm embarrassed for the university, I'm embarrassed for our fans.”

— Jerome Tang, Former Head Coach (Sporting News)

What’s next

Kansas State will now begin a search for a new head men's basketball coach to lead the program going forward.

The takeaway

Tang's dismissal underscores the challenges Kansas State has faced in maintaining stability and success in its men's basketball program since Bruce Weber's departure. The Wildcats will need to find the right leader to rebuild the program and return it to prominence in the Big 12.