Kansas State coach Jerome Tang gets fired “for cause” 4 days after putting players on blast vs. Cincinnati game

Jerome Tang chewed out his players after their 91-62 blowout home loss to Cincinnati on Wednesday. Four days later, he’s been fired “for cause” from the Kansas State coaching job.

According to ESPN, the basis for the for-cause firing is language in Jerome Tang’s contract that references any activity that brings “public disrepute, embarrassment, ridicule” to Kansas State. The school’s athletic director, Gene Taylor, made a statement about the decision.

“This was a decision that was made in the best interest of our university and men’s basketball program, 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 Kansas State Wildcats have just one win in the Big 12 Conference this season. Tang followed up the public criticism by having the team play against No. 3-ranked Houston without player names on the back of their jerseys.

“These dudes do not deserve to wear this uniform,” Tang said after the 78-64 loss to the Cougars.

“There will be very few of them in it next year. I’m embarrassed for the university, I’m embarrassed for our fans, our student section. It is ridiculous. I have no answer. No words.”

The program will shortly name an interim coach while conducting a search for a full-time leader.

Jerome Tang disagrees with “for cause” firing

The Kansas State Wildcats hired Jerome Tang on March 21, 2022. He led the program to an Elite Eight appearance in his first season. However, he could achieve similar feats in subsequent seasons with the program.

Tang does not agree with being fired “for cause”.

“I am deeply disappointed with the university’s decision and strongly disagree with the characterization of my termination, Tang told ESPN.

“I have always acted with integrity and faithfully fulfilled my responsibilities as head coach.”

The 2023 Naismith College Coach of the Year signed a contract extension through the 2029-30 season, and there is still $18.67 million remaining on that contract. He plans to fight the for-cause firing.