Kansas State Fires Men's Basketball Coach Jerome Tang

Dismissal comes after unhinged rant and program's overall struggles

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Kansas State University has fired men's basketball head coach Jerome Tang, citing recent public comments and the program's overall direction not aligning with the university's standards. Tang's dismissal comes after a widely publicized outburst at a press conference following a blowout loss to Cincinnati, as well as the team's disappointing 10-15 record this season, including a 1-11 conference mark.

Why it matters

Tang had led the Wildcats to the Elite Eight in his first season, but the team has since struggled, missing the NCAA Tournament three straight years. His recent comments and the team's poor performance have damaged his standing with the university and fan base.

The details

K-State is attempting to fire Tang for cause, which could reduce his $18 million buyout, though such clauses are difficult to enforce. The Wildcats are now searching for a permanent replacement, having not named an interim coach.

  • On February 15, 2026, K-State lost to Cincinnati 91-62 at home.
  • Following the loss, Tang made controversial comments criticizing his players.

The players

Jerome Tang

Former head coach of the Kansas State men's basketball team, who was fired after two failed NIL spending sprees and an unhinged rant.

Gene Taylor

Athletic director at Kansas State University, who announced Tang's dismissal, citing the coach's recent public comments and the program's overall direction not aligning with the university's standards.

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What they’re saying

“Recent public comments and conduct, in addition to the program's overall direction, have not aligned with K-State's standards for supporting student-athletes and representing the university.”

— Gene Taylor, Athletic Director, Kansas State University (yahoo.com)

What’s next

K-State has not named an interim coach and has already begun a national search for a permanent replacement.

The takeaway

Tang's dismissal highlights the high expectations and pressure faced by college basketball coaches, even after leading a team to the Elite Eight. K-State is now tasked with finding a new leader who can restore the program to its former success.