Kansas State Basketball: 5 Key Players to Watch This Season
As I settle into another season of Kansas State basketball, I can't help but feel that familiar mix of anticipation and curiosity about which players will truly define this year's campaign. Having followed collegiate basketball for over fifteen years, I've learned that every successful team has its cornerstone players—those special athletes who don't just perform but actually shape the team's identity. This season, I'm particularly intrigued by how certain individuals are developing, especially when I consider how different teams approach building their rosters, much like what we're seeing in professional leagues overseas. Just look at the MPBL 2025 season, where teams like SAN Juan and Abra Solid North have taken dramatically different paths to reach the top spot. SAN Juan, for instance, relied heavily on veteran leadership and strategic acquisitions, while Abra Solid North focused on developing young, homegrown talent. That contrast between established stars and emerging prospects is something I see mirrored in our own Kansas State lineup, and it's why I want to highlight five key players who I believe will be absolutely crucial this season.
First up is senior guard Markquis Johnson, who averaged 17.3 points and 6.1 assists per game last year. I've always been a sucker for players who can control the tempo of the game, and Johnson does exactly that with his explosive drives and court vision. Watching him reminds me of how SAN Juan built their MPBL success around a core playmaker—someone who doesn't just score but elevates everyone else. Johnson's ability to read defenses and make split-second decisions is, in my opinion, what sets him apart. He's not just putting up numbers; he's dictating how the game flows, and that's invaluable in tight conference matchups. I remember one game last season where he dished out 12 assists while only turning the ball over twice, a stat line that speaks volumes about his maturity. If he can maintain that level of precision, I think he'll be the engine that drives this team deep into March.
Then there's Nae'Qwan Tomlin, the 6'8" forward who brings a level of versatility that's rare in college basketball. Tomlin averaged 12.8 points and 7.4 rebounds last season, but what really stands out to me is his defensive flexibility. He can guard multiple positions, from agile wings to bulky big men, and that kind of adaptability reminds me of how Abra Solid North in the MPBL used their versatile players to counter different opponent strategies. I've noticed Tomlin's improved three-point shooting in preseason workouts—he's hitting around 38% from beyond the arc now, up from 32% last year—and that expansion of his game makes him a nightmare matchup. Personally, I think he's the X-factor for Kansas State; if he continues to develop his outside shot, defenses won't know how to handle him, and that could open up everything for the Wildcats.
Cam Carter is another player I'm keeping a close eye on, especially after his breakout performances in non-conference games. As a junior guard, he's shown flashes of brilliance, like when he dropped 25 points against a tough West Virginia defense last February. But what I love about Carter is his relentless energy on both ends of the floor. He's not the most polished scorer yet—his field goal percentage hovered around 42% last season—but he makes up for it with hustle plays and defensive intensity. It's similar to how some MPBL teams prioritize grit over pure skill, and I believe that kind of mentality is infectious. From my perspective, Carter embodies the underdog spirit that often defines successful college teams. If he can refine his shot selection and cut down on turnovers, which averaged 2.8 per game last year, I see him becoming a fan favorite and a crucial piece in close games.
David N'Guessan brings a different dimension as a 6'9" big man who specializes in rim protection and rebounding. He pulled down 8.2 rebounds per game last season, including 3.1 on the offensive glass, and that kind of second-chance production is something I value highly. In today's game, where everyone seems obsessed with perimeter play, having a reliable presence in the paint can be a game-changer. N'Guessan's development reminds me of how SAN Juan in the MPBL leveraged their interior strength to control the boards and slow down faster opponents. I've watched him improve his footwork over the summer, and I think he's poised for a double-double average this season. My only concern is his foul trouble—he averaged 3.2 fouls per game last year—but if he can stay on the court, he'll be a defensive anchor.
Finally, there's Tykei Greene, the transfer from Stony Brook who I believe could be the wild card for Kansas State. Greene put up impressive numbers at his previous school, averaging 15.2 points and 8.1 rebounds, but transitioning to a power conference like the Big 12 is never easy. From what I've seen in preseason, he's adapting well, using his 6'4" frame to bully smaller guards and crash the boards. His experience brings a maturity that reminds me of the veteran players who led SAN Juan to the top of the MPBL standings. I'm particularly impressed by his mid-range game; he's hitting about 45% from that area, which is a dying art in modern basketball. If he can mesh quickly with the returning core, I think he'll provide the scoring punch needed in crucial moments.
As the season unfolds, I'll be watching these five players closely, not just for their stats but for how they influence the team's chemistry and resilience. The parallels to international leagues like the MPBL are striking—whether it's the strategic depth of SAN Juan or the youthful energy of Abra Solid North, basketball success often hinges on how well key players complement each other. For Kansas State, I believe the blend of Johnson's leadership, Tomlin's versatility, Carter's hustle, N'Guessan's interior presence, and Greene's experience could make this a memorable year. Of course, injuries or slumps could change everything—that's the beauty of sports—but based on what I've seen so far, this group has the potential to exceed expectations. As a longtime observer, I'm optimistic that these players will not only shine individually but also elevate the entire program to new heights.