Wildcat Reunion: Kansas State to Battle Former Big 12 Rival in Road Exhibition Opener
In a move that has stirred up excitement among fans and alumni alike, Kansas State men’s basketball is set to tip off its upcoming season with an exhibition matchup against a familiar face — a former Big 12 rival. The Wildcats will hit the road for their exhibition opener, rekindling an old conference rivalry that promises both nostalgia and competitive fire.
While exhibition games are typically seen as tune-ups or opportunities to test new lineups and strategies, this one carries added weight. The unnamed former Big 12 opponent shares a storied history with Kansas State, having clashed multiple times in heated conference battles before realignment scattered longtime foes across the college basketball landscape. This game, although not officially counted in regular season records, has all the makings of a throwback thriller that both programs’ fanbases are eagerly anticipating.
For head coach Jerome Tang, entering his third season at the helm of the Wildcats, this matchup provides a meaningful benchmark. Kansas State is coming off a solid campaign and is looking to build momentum early. An exhibition game of this caliber offers his team the chance to test its mettle against a worthy opponent while getting younger players acclimated to high-pressure environments.
“This isn’t just an ordinary exhibition,” Coach Tang noted in a recent press release. “It’s a chance to honor the past, reignite a competitive spirit, and give our guys a true road game experience before the real grind begins.”
Adding to the intrigue, the Wildcats have reloaded with an impressive mix of returning players, incoming transfers, and promising freshmen. With several key contributors from last season graduated or moved on to professional opportunities, the exhibition will serve as a first glimpse into how the new-look roster meshes on the court. The former rival, meanwhile, is expected to offer a tough, physical test — a reminder of the hard-nosed basketball that once defined Big 12 showdowns.
Beyond the court, this game is an opportunity to reconnect with a bygone era of college basketball. Conference realignments over the past decade have changed the shape of rivalries and regional matchups, often to the disappointment of fans. This exhibition rekindles the intensity and tradition of a historic series, even if only for one night.
Wildcat supporters are already buzzing on social media, planning road trips and reminiscing about memorable moments from the rivalry’s heyday. Many see this game as more than a preseason warm-up — it’s a celebration of the program’s rich heritage and a nod to the competitive spirit that has long defined Kansas State basketball.
Tip-off details and ticket availability will be announced in the coming weeks, but one thing is clear: when Kansas State takes the floor against their former Big 12 foe, it will be more than just an exhibition. It will be a reminder of where the Wildcats have been, where they are headed, and the legacy they carry with them every time they play.
