Kansas State can breathe easier now knowing that Jerome Tang will return in 2024. The second-year Wildcat head coach has decided to return to K-State after a heavy pursuit from Arkansas.
The Razorbacks had an opening after Eric Musselman left for USC. The move left Jerome Tang and Ole Miss Head Coach Chris Beard in the crosshairs in Fayetteville. Once the apparent number one choice in Beard announced he was returning to the Rebels, all attention shifted to Tang.
In just two seasons at K-State, Tang had compiled a record of 45-25. He also won the 2023 Naismith Coach of the Year Award, en route to K-State’s Elite Eight run. Tang and Kansas State took a step back in 2024, playing in the NIT.
Despite the struggles in 2024, Tang delivered a big boost to the hopes for year three in Manhattan. Michigan transfer Dug McDaniel committed to the Wildcats to kick off the offseason.
While ultimately returning to Kansas State, it was easy for people to see why Tang might jump for Arkansas. The Razorbacks have showcased strong NIL support over the last few seasons in the transfer portal and have an SEC budget. Tang has continued to stress the importance of strong NIL support at K-State.
The move also would present a fresh start with new administrators for Tang after speculation of a rift between the athletics side and Kansas State University President Richard Linton. This stemmed from former K-State forward Nae’Qwan Tomlin who was dismissed from the team in December and the situation continued to come up in news cycles as recently as two weeks ago.
With K-State and Tang thwarting away Arkansas, the coaching carousel can settle down. No more Power 5 jobs remain open after Arkansas. The Wildcats can focus on continuing to build next season’s roster. That includes McDaniel, plus the possibility of UNCG transfer Mikeal Brown-Jones, who announced the Wildcats made his top three on Friday.
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