Kansas State University has parted ways with men’s basketball head coach Jerome Tang after four seasons leading the Wildcats program, according to multiple reports. The decision comes amid a difficult 2025–26 campaign in which K-State stumbled to a 1–11 start in Big 12 play, culminating with Saturday’s 78-64 loss at Houston.
Tang’s tenure at Kansas State never got turned around after a magical run to the Elite 8 during his first season with the Wildcats. Picked near the bottom of preseason expectations, his Wildcats finished 26–10, tied for third in the Big 12, and went on a deep NCAA Tournament run to the Elite Eight — the school’s first appearance at that stage since 2018.
But since then, it’s been all downhill for Kansas State under Tang. The following season the Cats missed the NCAA Tournament, finishing 19-15. And then, last season the Cats went 16-17. But this season was rock bottom with Kansas State being uncompetitive in recent weeks, including a 1-11 mark in the league.
But one of the reasons it was believed Tang was safe was due to the buyout, however according to Pete Thamel, Kansas State is attempting to fire Tang for cause.
Tang put out a statement refuting any claims that he could be fired for cause, saying, “I have always acted with integrity and faithfully fulfilled my responsibilities as head coach. I would like to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for the opportunity to serve as Head Coach at Kansas State.”
Jerome Tang’s Massive Buyout
- Before April 30, 2026 – $18.675M
- After 2026-27 – $15.75M
- After 2027-28 – $12.75M
- After 2028-29 – $9.675M
- After 2029-30 – $6.525M
- Between May 2030 and April 2031 – $4.4M or remaining unpaid salary
Now this is what’s in his contract, but it’s not expected to be what Tang agrees to as he parts ways with Kansas State University.
Jerome Tang has finished his tenure at Kansas State with a 71-57 record.
