In a stunning and celebratory move that has fans and alumni buzzing across the country, Kansas State University has officially confirmed the return of one of its most iconic legends — Mitch Richmond — to the basketball program. The six-time NBA All-Star and Naismith Hall of Famer will be joining the Wildcats’ coaching staff in a vital leadership and player development role ahead of the 2025–26 season.
A Legend Comes Home
Richmond, 59, played for Kansas State from 1986 to 1988 and remains one of the most dominant players in program history. In just two seasons, he racked up 1,327 points, the highest total ever for a two-year Wildcat player, and led K-State to an Elite Eight appearance in the 1988 NCAA Tournament.
His No. 23 jersey, retired by the school in 2009, hangs in the rafters of Bramlage Coliseum — a constant reminder of his greatness and lasting impact on Wildcat basketball.
A Vital Role in the Tang Era
Head Coach Jerome Tang, who has revitalized Kansas State basketball since taking the helm, welcomed Richmond back with open arms.
“Mitch is more than a legend — he’s family,” said Tang in Monday’s press release. “Having him return, not just as an icon but as a mentor, is transformational for our players. His experience, his leadership, and his connection to the university are second to none.”
Richmond will serve as Special Advisor to Player Development and Alumni Engagement, working closely with Tang, assistant coaches, and current student-athletes. He’s expected to take an active role in mentoring young guards and wings — especially in areas like NBA preparation, mental toughness, and scoring versatility.
Fans React with Pure Joy
Within hours of the announcement, Wildcat Nation erupted on social media.
“Mitch coming back is everything,” tweeted one fan. “This is the bridge between K-State’s past greatness and the future we’re building now.”
Another user wrote:
“Mitch Richmond on the bench at Bramlage? That’s goosebumps. Let’s run it back to 1988!”
A Man of His Word and Heart
Richmond’s return isn’t just symbolic — it’s also deeply personal. Earlier this year, he made headlines by donating $12.2 million to support a new state-of-the-art practice facility in Manhattan, Kansas. That donation, one of the largest by a former K-State athlete, underscored his ongoing commitment to the program’s future.
“I’ve always wanted to give back to the place that gave me my shot,” Richmond said. “This program shaped my life, and I want to be part of shaping the next generation of Wildcats.”
A Resume Few Can Match
Richmond went on from Kansas State to be selected fifth overall in the 1988 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors. Over a decorated 14-year NBA career, he was a six-time All-Star, 1995 All-Star Game MVP, and NBA Champion with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2002. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014.
He also earned Olympic gold as part of the 1996 Team USA Dream Team in Atlanta.
The Future is Purple
With a potent recruiting class and momentum from back-to-back postseason appearances, Coach Tang’s Wildcats are already being talked about as a potential Top 25 team for next season. Adding Mitch Richmond to the staff only strengthens their national credibility and recruiting power.
Final Word
Mitch Richmond’s homecoming isn’t just a feel-good story — it’s a strategic power move by Kansas State. As college basketball shifts into an era defined by experience, mentorship, and program loyalty, the Wildcats just brought back one of their own to help lead the charge.
Welcome home, Mitch.
Once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat.
