As we gear up for the 2026-27 season, Kansas State's men's basketball team is starting to take shape under head coach Casey Alexander. Known for his successful tenure at Belmont, Alexander is bringing some familiar faces along for the ride, including Belmont legend Kerron Johnson, who joins the Wildcats as an assistant coach.
Joining Johnson on the coaching staff are JJ Butler and Luke Smith, both of whom worked with Alexander at Belmont. These hires signal a blend of continuity and fresh energy as Alexander steps into the Big 12 arena.
Completing the staff are Bryce Haase, who takes on the role of Director of Analytics, and Lee Scott, the new strength coach. Scott has been with Alexander since 2023, focusing on sports performance, while Haase, a UMass graduate, continues his role in analytics.
Transitioning from a mid-major conference to the powerhouse Big 12 is no small feat. The move requires not just skill but also adaptability, and Alexander’s team has both in spades. Their previous experience together should help them hit the ground running.
While the competition level is undoubtedly higher, the resources and opportunities available in a Power Five conference are a significant upgrade. Even if immediate success isn't guaranteed, Alexander will have the tools to build a formidable program.
Drawing parallels to Ben McCollum’s journey at Iowa, where he transitioned from Division II to lead the Hawkeyes to potential greatness, Alexander has a roadmap for success. If he can harness the talent and resources at Kansas State, the Wildcats could soon be a force to reckon with.