Among Jerome Tang's men from last season's Kansas State roster, only one player returns: Serbian forward Andrej Kostic.
Kostic announced his intentions to stay with the program last month, while everyone else from PJ Haggerty to Stephen Osei departed. Wildcats coach Casey Alexander revealed the conversations he and Kostic had upon his return.
"Everybody had the same opportunity for conversations," Alexander said in his second Wildcats press conference. "A lot of guys already had their decisions made before I was even introduced, much less after. But he was open and receptive to conversation. The staff worked really hard to get videos prepared to show him how we play big picture, but also to show him why we think he'd be really good for us. A fresh start would allow him to be the player that I think everybody in Manhattan wants him to be."
Kostic averaged 5.2 points, 1.7 rebounds, and one assist last season, while shooting 37.5 from 3-point range. Performances like his games against Kansas provide optimism for him as a rotational player. His outside shot falls right into Alexander's game plan of establishing a perimeter presence.
"It’s still going to be a process, but he was very open and receptive to the conversation," Alexander said. "I think he trusted that we would have his best interest in mind, and I give the people of Manhattan, KS, a lot of credit for his decisions to stay. He feels like he’s loved there and feels very much appreciated. So that was a big part of his decision as well."
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!