A season of contrasts
The 2025‑26 athletic year at Kansas State University delivered a mix of disappointment and triumph. While none of the Wildcats' major programs earned a berth in the NCAA Tournaments, the season was punctuated by record‑breaking feats, surprise postseason advances and a flurry of coaching moves that reshaped the program's future.
One of the most electrifying moments came when running back Joe Jackson exploded for 293 yards and three touchdowns in a thriller at Utah, a performance that instantly entered the school's highlight reel.
Program‑defining achievements
The women's soccer squad capped the campaign with its winningest season in program history, while the track and field team held the nation's top ranking during the indoor campaign, underscoring the breadth of talent across the campus.
PJ Haggerty gave the men's basketball team a jolt early in the year, pouring in 37 points against Mississippi State, a display that hinted at a potentially explosive offense.
Dee Kennedy made history in baseball, smashing the K‑State home run record with 20 homers, a milestone that resonated with fans across the state.
The volleyball team broke a long drought by not only qualifying for the NCAA Tournament but also winning its first match since 2016, a victory that reignited enthusiasm for the program.
Perhaps the most talked‑about run came from the women's basketball side, which, as a 12‑seed, orchestrated a historic Big 12 Tournament run that captured national attention.
Football dominance and new leadership
The football team extended its Sunflower Showdown streak to 17 consecutive victories over Kansas, a rivalry that remains a cornerstone of the Wildcats' identity.
Amid the on‑field successes, the athletic department announced two key hires: Casey Alexander, who arrived to take the reins of the men's basketball program, and Collin Klein, a former star quarterback, who returned to lead the football team, succeeding the retired Chris Klieman.
The university also scheduled a non‑conference matchup with Texas A&M University, a game that added another layer of excitement to the season's slate.