A surprise revival of a historic rivalry
The Kansas State Wildcats and the Wichita State Shockers are set to meet on a neutral court in Kansas City next season, a game that has caught many observers off guard.
Scheduled for early December, the contest will take place at the T‑Mobile Center, the same venue that has hosted a variety of college basketball events in recent years.
The surprise element stems from the recent past, when former Kansas State head coach Jerome Tang expressed little enthusiasm for continuing the series after a disappointing loss, casting doubt on the future of the matchup.
Now, under the guidance of new head coach Casey Alexander, the Wildcats have signaled a willingness to resurrect the rivalry, a move that has been welcomed by fans on both sides.
Series history and recent performance
The two programs have faced off 35 times, with Kansas State holding a 23‑12 advantage. The Shockers entered the most recent season with a 24‑win campaign under head coach Paul Mills, while the Wildcats struggled to a 12‑win record and are eager to rebound.
Analysts suggest that the renewed rivalry could provide a boost to both programs, offering a high‑stakes early‑season test that may influence conference standings and recruiting narratives.
Looking ahead
Local officials and the T‑Mobile Center’s management have expressed enthusiasm for hosting the game, anticipating a strong attendance and the economic impact that such a marquee matchup can bring to the Kansas City area.
For the Wildcats, the game represents an opportunity to showcase a refreshed identity and to begin a turnaround after a challenging season, while the Shockers hope to build on their recent success and maintain momentum.