The Kansas State Wildcats men’s basketball team is beginning to take shape under new head coach Casey Alexander, and his first staff move is a familiar one.
According to reports, Kerron Johnson is expected to join Kansas State as an assistant coach, following Alexander to Manhattan after spending the last four seasons together at Belmont. The hire represents a key step as Alexander builds out his coaching staff and establishes continuity in his transition to the Big 12.
Johnson has been a trusted member of Alexander’s staff at Belmont, where he helped maintain the program’s success in the mid-major ranks. His familiarity with Alexander’s system and philosophy should provide immediate value as the Wildcats look to implement a new identity.
Before entering coaching, Johnson was a standout player for Belmont and remains one of the most decorated players in program history. He is a member of the Belmont Hall of Fame, a testament to his impact during his playing career. As a point guard, Johnson was known for his leadership, toughness, and ability to control the game, traits that have carried over into his coaching career.
For Kansas State, bringing in someone with both playing and coaching experience under Alexander ensures a smoother transition as the new staff gets established. Johnson’s understanding of the system, along with his ability to connect with players, should make him an important piece of the Wildcats’ program moving forward.
This move also reflects a common trend in coaching transitions, where new head coaches lean on trusted assistants who are familiar with their approach. With Johnson expected to be on board, Alexander continues to put together a staff that aligns with his vision for Kansas State basketball.
As the Wildcats prepare for the upcoming season in the Big 12 Conference, assembling the right staff will be just as important as building the roster, and Alexander’s first hire suggests he is prioritizing both familiarity and experience.
