The transfer portal season gets even more ominous for Kansas State.
In addition to losing the starting backcourt, center Dorin Buca has entered the transfer portal. Buca averaged 3.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks last season, anchoring the Wildcats' paint production on both ends of the court.
Buca was a fan favorite among the Wildcats faithful. His offensive presence created great plays on the perimeter and some highlight dunks on his own. On the defensive side, his size was perfect for paint protection and blocked shots. Buca's numbers didn't jump off the stat sheet, but he impressed many for the amount of time he played.
Without him, Kansas State will need to find its next big man. A relatively positive introduction for Casey Alexander has simmered with the lack of portal acquisitions so far. Many anticipated he'd bring in some star power from Belmont or elsewhere, but the program has yet to add any major names. The losses were anticipated with Jerome Tang out, but the additions must pick up soon.
Here are the other Kansas State players who have entered the portal:
Taj Manning, Junior Forward
2025-26 STATS: 4.2 PTS, 5.1 REB, 0.7 BLK
Manning's team impact went beyond the box score, being hailed for his defensive intensity, rebounding, and role as the team's glue. He'll be a relatively simple replacement in terms of production, but the impact and veteran presence will be difficult to replicate.
PJ Haggerty, Junior Guard
2025-26 STATS: 23.4 PTS, 5.3 REB, 3.8 AST
Haggerty was the country's third-leading scorer during the regular season. As the Wildcats' leading scorer, he was often the team's only source of offense, single-handedly keeping them in most of their conference matchups.
Abdi Bashir Jr., Junior Guard
2025-26 STATS: 13.2 PTS, 2.2 REB, 2.3 AST
It was only a matter of time before Kansas State's stars entered the transfer portal, delayed by the news of much smaller names headlining the losses. One of the country's best shooters, he shot 44.4 percent from 3-point range.
Exavier Wilson, Freshman Guard
2025-26 STATS: N/A
David Castillo, Sophomore Guard
2025-26 STATS: 10.3 PTS, 1.9 REB, 1.8 AST
Castillo has announced his intentions to leave the school, making him the second player to depart from last year's roster. He rose in production in his second season, especially in the non-conference slate.
Stephen Osei, Sophomore Forward
2025-26 STATS: 0.7 PTS, 1.0 REB
Osei barely saw the court for the Wildcats last season, logging just nine playing minutes with two points, three rebounds, and three turnovers.
JOIN THE COMMUNITY
Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!
It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members. Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!