A season of transition for the Wildcats
The 2025‑26 athletic year will be remembered as one of the most difficult in recent Kansas State history. None of the university’s major teams earned a spot in the postseason, and the Wildcats were swept by arch‑rival Kansas in both men’s and women’s basketball for the first time since 2013.
Adding to the disappointment, football coach Chris Klieman announced his retirement following a 6‑6 record that left the program without a bowl invitation despite meeting the eligibility threshold. His departure opened the door for former quarterback Collin Klein, a beloved figure in Wildcats lore, to take the helm.
The men’s basketball program also saw a mid‑season change when Jerome Tang was dismissed after a string of under‑performing games and a series of contentious press conferences. The administration quickly turned to Casey Alexander, a proven recruiter from Belmont, to restore momentum.
While the men’s teams struggled, the women’s basketball squad displayed resilience, finishing strong in the Big 12 Tournament and hinting at a brighter future. Other sports also delivered moments of pride: the volleyball team returned to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2021, and the men’s indoor track and field squad briefly held the nation’s top ranking.
Despite the setbacks, the university remains optimistic. New leadership in football and basketball, combined with a wave of young talent across the roster, has set high expectations for the 2026 season. Fans are eager to see whether the Wildcats can translate these changes into tangible success on the field, court and track.