Dug McDaniel, the starting point guard for Kansas State’s men’s basketball team, announced his departure from the program via social media on April 14, 2025. The 5-foot-11 junior from Washington, D.C., transferred to K-State in April 2024 after two seasons at Michigan, where he led the Wolverines in scoring (16.3 points per game), assists (4.7 per game), and three-point shooting (36.8%) during the 2023–24 season
At Kansas State, McDaniel averaged 11.4 points, 4.9 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. He delivered standout performances, including a 15-point, 11-assist game against No. 16 Kansas and a 24-point, five-steal effort against No. 13 Arizona . Despite early-season challenges, McDaniel’s contributions were vital to the Wildcats’ offense.
McDaniel’s exit adds to a series of departures from the Wildcats’ roster. Guard Brendan Hausen has transferred to Iowa, while centers Ugonna Onyenso and Baye Fall, along with forward Macaleab Rich, have entered the transfer portal. Additionally, starting forwards David N’Guessan and Coleman Hawkins have exhausted their eligibility
Head coach Jerome Tang now faces a significant rebuilding task. The team has secured a commitment from Monmouth guard Abdi Bashir Jr. and anticipates the eligibility of midseason transfer forward Tyreek Smith from Memphis . However, with a 16–17 overall record last season, the Wildcats’ roster overhaul presents a considerable challenge.
McDaniel’s departure marks a pivotal moment for Kansas State basketball, as the program navigates a period of transition and seeks to reestablish its competitive edge in the Big 12 Conference.
