K-State Roster Management: Identifying "The Guy" Before He Blows Up
Transfer Portal Efficiency and the Will Howard Controversy
In this episode of 3MAW, hosts John Kurtz and Derek Young (DY) break down the final stages of the Kansas State basketball roster overhaul and address explosive comments from a former face of the program.
The discussion begins with the commitment of Bradley transfer Montana Wheeler. The hosts argue that Wheeler represents a strategic “market efficiency” for K-State; by landing a talented guard who put up impressive numbers as a true freshman in the Missouri Valley, K-State may have secured a future star before his “price tag” became unattainable in the NIL market.
The conversation takes a sharp turn into the football world, focusing on an Athletic article featuring former K-State quarterback Will Howard. Now at Ohio State, Howard claimed that “politics” and NIL money influenced his playing time during the 2023 season, suggesting he split reps with Avery Johnson primarily because Johnson was being paid more. John and DY don’t hold back, calling the comments “intellectually dishonest.” They remind listeners that while NIL dynamics were certainly at play in the locker room, Howard’s benching followed a string of erratic performances, including a disastrous three-interception game against Oklahoma State.
The hosts wrap up by discussing the “mystery international big man” potentially joining the basketball roster and reflecting on how the charm of college athletics is shifting as players now navigate multiple programs and high-stakes financial negotiations throughout their careers.
Key Takeaways
The Montana Wheeler Bet: K-State is prioritizing high-upside young transfers. Wheeler, who averaged 8 points and 3 assists as a freshman, is viewed as a high-value acquisition who addresses the need for a dynamic ball-handler.
A “Dishonest” Exit: The crew critiques Will Howard for attributing his 2023 struggles to “politics” rather than on-field performance, highlighting that Chris Klyman stood by Howard longer than most coaches would have after his early-career struggles.
Roster Nearing Completion: With 11 players currently on the basketball roster, the staff is likely looking to add one more guard and a significant frontcourt piece (potentially an international player) to finalize the group.