Kansas State Fires Jerome Tang Days After He Told Players They ‘Didn’t Deserve To Wear Uniform’

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by Matthew MendivesFebruary 17, 2026, 12:29 am >

Kansas State has fired its head coach, Jerome Tang.

This decision comes less than a week after Kansas State’s blowout loss to Cincinnati. After this loss, Tang told reporters that his players “do not deserve to wear their uniforms.”

Kansas State has referenced Tang’s comments as a reason for the firing.

“This was a decision that was made in the best interest of our university and men’s basketball program,” Kansas State athletic director Gene Taylor said. “Recent public comments and conduct, in addition to the program’s overall direction, have not aligned with K-State’s standards for supporting student-athletes and representing the university. We wish Coach Tang and his family all the best moving forward.”

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Since this is a for-cause firing, Tang is allowed to dispute it.

“I am deeply disappointed with the university’s decision and strongly disagree with the characterization of my termination,” Tang said. “I have always acted with integrity and faithfully fulfilled my responsibilities as head coach.”

Disputes over for-cause firings usually trigger legal challenges. Tang could sue Kansas State for wrongful termination. In this case, Kansas State must prove that Tang violated his contract or specific team or league policy. These disputes usually end in private settlements. Both sides usually look to avoid lengthy legal disputes.

Despite this, Tang is thankful for his time at Kansas State.

“I am grateful to the players, staff, and fans who make this program so special,” Tang said. “I remain proud of what we built together and confident that I have always acted in the best interests of the university and our student-athletes.”

Matthew Driscoll has been named the interim head coach for Kansas State. For Tang, he will likely get some interest during the offseason. His former school, Baylor, currently has a record of 13-12, which is currently No. 14 in the Big 12.