Calls grow for college basketball coach’s firing after harsh remarks about his players originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
We’re at the point in the college basketball season where many teams have established their identities as they head into the final stretch before conference and NCAA tournament play in early to mid-March.
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One team that appears to be struggling is the Kansas State Wildcats, led by head coach Jerome Tang.
On Wednesday night at home, the Wildcats were routed 91‑62 by the Cincinnati Bearcats, giving up 53 points in the first half. Kansas State now sits at 10‑14 overall and 1‑10 in Big 12 play.
Fans were reportedly seen wearing bags over their heads during the blowout loss, as the Wildcats are now 26‑31 over their last 57 games under Tang.
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Some Kansas State fans are wearing bags on their heads tonight. pic.twitter.com/RSUeCFbDKA
Tang experienced early success after taking over the Kansas State program in 2022, including a Elite Eight run in the NCAA Tournament that same year. But since then, the program has been on a downward spiral, missing the tournament the past two seasons and currently on track to miss it again.
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The team’s poor performance, combined with Tang’s comments about his players following Wednesday’s loss, has sparked growing calls for his firing.
“This was embarrassing. These dudes do not deserve to wear this uniform,” Tang said. “There will be very few of them in it next year. It is just ridiculous. We have practice at 6 a.m… I’m pissed. This is… this is… yeah.”
“I don’t think you have to worry about who is playing for K State next year, Jerome,” a fan said.
Another added, “As a Kansas fan, I enjoy when KSU is a solid, respectable team. Get this guy out of there. Frank Martin was the man.”
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One person wrote, “Funny thing is he will be fired at the end of the season, so he doesn’t deserve to wear their colors either.”
“Who wants to play for this guy? You’re the one assembling the team, Jerome. Look in the mirror maybe?” another fan shared.
One more commented, “Attitude reflects leadership. It’s time for a new voice at K‑St.”
