K-State Slate 3.16.26: Wildcats Dominate Track and Field, Hire New Men's Basketball Coach

The Wildcats make big moves in basketball, baseball, and track and field

Mar. 16, 2026 at 4:48pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Kansas State University has had a busy week in sports, with the hiring of a new men's basketball coach, a tough loss for the baseball team, and a historic performance by the track and field teams at the NCAA Indoor Championships. The article covers the key developments across K-State's athletic programs.

Why it matters

This report provides a comprehensive update on the state of Kansas State's major sports programs, highlighting the university's successes and challenges. It is significant news for the K-State community and fans, as the school looks to build momentum across its athletic departments.

The details

The men's basketball team has hired Belmont's Casey Alexander as its new head coach on a 5-year, $3.3 million contract. The women's basketball team made a strong run in the Big 12 Tournament, likely earning a bid to the WNIT. In baseball, the BatCats had a 9-game winning streak snapped with a 16-6 loss to Houston. The tennis team is struggling, losing 4-1 to Oklahoma State. However, the track and field teams had historic performances at the NCAA Indoor Championships, with the men finishing 4th and the women 7th - the best finishes ever for K-State. The Wildcats dominated the triple jump and long jump events.

  • On Friday, the athletic department announced Belmont's Casey Alexander as the program's new head men's basketball coach.
  • The women's basketball team lost to TCU in the Big 12 Tournament semifinals.
  • Heading into Sunday, the baseball team had won 9 straight games before losing 16-6 to Houston.
  • The tennis team lost 4-1 to #27 Oklahoma State on an unspecified date.
  • The NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships took place this past weekend in Fayetteville.

The players

Casey Alexander

The new head coach of the Kansas State men's basketball team, hired from Belmont University.

Tess Heal

A Kansas State senior and finalist for the College All-Star basketball game.

Carlos Vasquez

A senior on the Kansas State baseball team who hit a grand slam in the opening frame against Houston.

Daniela Wamokpego

A Kansas State track and field athlete who won the national title in the women's triple jump.

Selva Prabhu

A Kansas State track and field athlete who took silver in the men's triple jump, setting a new school record.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This report highlights the diverse successes of Kansas State's athletic programs, from the hiring of a new men's basketball coach to the historic performances of the track and field teams. It demonstrates the university's commitment to building a well-rounded sports program that can compete at the highest levels.