Kansas State's Tang dismissed after rant against players

Kansas State fired head coach Jerome Tang for cause Sunday following a public bashing of players in the wake of a recent loss to Cincinnati that violated the terms of his contract.

"This was a decision that was made in the best interest of our university and men's basketball program," 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."

The move comes a day after Kansas State fell to Houston and suffered its sixth straight loss. The Wildcats dropped to 10-15 overall and 1-11 in Big 12 play as Tang neared the end of his fourth season in charge.

Tang ranted against his players following Wednesday's home defeat at the hands of Cincinnati, saying their efforts disgraced the school.

"This was embarrassing," Tang said postgame. "These dudes do not deserve to wear this uniform, and there will be very few of them in it next year. I'm embarrassed for the university. I'm embarrassed for our fans and our student section. It's just ridiculous."

Tang's contract states that he "shall not engage in any behavior, actions, or activities that subjects coach, K-State Athletics, or the university to public disrepute, embarrassment, ridicule, or scandal."

Kansas State could avoid paying the $18.7-million buyout in Tang's contract if his firing was based solely on violating the terms of his contract.

Tang plans to contest Kansas State firing him for cause, according to ESPN's Pete Thamel.

"I am deeply disappointed with the university's decision and strongly disagree with the characterization of my termination," Tang said.

The 59-year-old guided the Wildcats to the Elite Eight during the 2022-23 campaign, his first with the team. They've struggled to replicate the early success, failing to make the last two NCAA Tournaments and tracking toward missing it again this year.

Tang departs Manhattan with a 71-57 record. He previously served as an assistant coach under Scott Drew at Baylor from 2003-22.

Kansas State has not announced who will serve as the team's interim coach for the final six games of the regular season.