Why Casey Alexander wanted to bring Andrej Kostic back to Kansas State
Andrej Kostic is the only player from last season's Kansas State basketball roster to return in 2026-27. Here's why Casey Alexander wanted him.
MANHATTAN — When Andrej Kostic got his opportunities during his freshman season , there were flashes of the potential that made some consider him a possible NBA Draft pick. A quick release and sniper from deep, paired with his size at 6-foot-6, reminded many why the Wildcats were so high on him. Unfortunately, his usage never allowed him to live up to the hype he arrived in Manhattan with.
His role was another blunder on a long list amid the program's frustrating season. When Jerome Tang was fired, it was assumed that Kostic would depart The Little Apple, only to have his chance to develop elsewhere. With the right coach , he could become the player many believe he can be.
Enter Casey Alexander, Kansas State 's new coach, whose offensive system could be perfect for someone with Kostic's skillset. With a system ranked among the nation's best in 3-point shooting over the last 4 years at Belmont, staying in Manhattan could unlock the Serbian native's capabilities. That's what Kostic decided to do.
"He was open and receptive to a conversation," Alexander said. "Our staff worked really hard to get video prepared to show him how we play big picture and how he could be good for us and get a fresh start and would allow you to be the player that I think everybody in Manhattan wants you to be. " Kostic will be the lone returner to Kansas State's basketball roster in 2026-27.