The college basketball landscape is buzzing with big moves, as star players Tyler Lundblade and Drew Scharnowski are entering the transfer portal following the departure of their coach, Alexander. Lundblade, the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) Player of the Year, made a significant impact by leading the conference's top offense with an average of 15.6 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. His scoring prowess was a key factor in his team clinching the regular-season title.
On the other hand, sophomore forward Scharnowski showcased his versatility and defensive skills, averaging 10.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.6 assists. His performance earned him First-Team All-MVC and MVC All-Defensive Team honors, with his rebounding ranking among the top five in the conference. Scharnowski's two-way play is sure to attract interest from various programs.
Reflecting on his time at Belmont University, Scharnowski expressed gratitude in a heartfelt message, acknowledging the support from Coach Alexander and celebrating the team's achievements, including 48 wins over two years and an MVC regular-season championship.
With Alexander now at Kansas State, the big question is whether Lundblade and Scharnowski might follow him. Kansas State is eager for a fresh start after a tough 2025-26 season, where they managed only three conference wins. The team struggled, leading to a shake-up and the hiring of Alexander to bring a new culture and dynamic.
Alexander's track record at Belmont, with a 166-60 record and consistent top finishes in the MVC, speaks volumes. His winning mentality and focus on player development could be key in attracting his former players to join him at Kansas State. Familiarity with his system might make the transition smoother for Lundblade and Scharnowski, offering them a chance to thrive under a coach they trust.
In his introductory press conference, Alexander emphasized the importance of style in his coaching philosophy. He aims to create an exciting, high-tempo playing style that not only entertains fans but also leads to victories.
His vision is clear: a program that's fun to play for, fun to watch, and consistently successful. If he can bring this to Kansas State, it could be the start of an exciting new chapter for the Wildcats.