The Kansas State men’s basketball team has shifted dramatically in the past few months. The hiring of Jerome Tang led to the departure of every player on the roster except Markquis Nowell and Ismael Massoud. Looking to turn everything around, Tang has been active in recruiting high schoolers and using the transfer portal for help.
The first of the roster turn-around comes from former LSU center Jerrell Colbert and Mississippi State guard Cam Carter. These two — along with more to come — play a key role in the team’s success for the 2022-23 season.
Fans will find out next season how these players will contribute and what type of basketball players they are. Here’s what to expect:
Jerrell Colbert:
Colbert might be exactly what Wildcat fans have been waiting for. While only playing in four games at LSU, Colbert’s talent and high school production are enough to provide excitement.
Colbert comes to K-State as a center who can make a big difference. His athletic profile displays an upgrade at the center position.
The four-star out of Cornerstone Christian Academy averaged 12 points and 11 rebounds a game in the 2019-20 season and participated in the USA Men’s Junior National Team mini-camp in the summer of 2019.
Colbert has a lot of unknowns about his collegiate game but is known for his athleticism. Standing at 6 feet 10 inches, Colbert can provide a spark for the Wildcats. With his height and mobility, Colbert gives Tang a rim protector on defense and a constant lob threat in the paint.
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OPINION: Transfer portal brings player success
Cam Carter:
Carter played in 27 games for the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the 2021-22 campaign as a freshman but received little playing time, averaging 8.2 minutes per game. The former Bulldog recorded 15 points on three three-pointers against Alabama and seven assists against Montana.
While shooting and passing aren’t what he’s known for, Carter displayed the potential to thrive in those situations. His high school coach Steve Smith and Mississippi State coach Ben Howland said to the Cowbell Corner in April 2021 that he excels in defensive play and overall athleticism.
With an open roster, Carter sits as the starting shooting guard next to Nowell. The duo could provide an aggressive defense that swarms the backcourt of opponents next season while creating an exhilarating bond on offense.
Looking Ahead:
Carter and Colbert will have a chance to produce for the Wildcats next year, regardless of past playing time. They’re expected to make noise from the get-go and will likely be major contributors towards any success next season.
Head coach Jerome Tang’s next prize might result in highly-rated transfer Antoine Davis. The former Detroit Mercy Titan shaved his choices down to five teams, with K-State among the favorites.
