Kansas State basketball fans have experienced the full spectrum of emotions over the past 25 years. From reaching the later stages of March Madness and securing conference titles to enduring seasons filled with struggles, injuries, and disappointments, this quarter-century has been a rollercoaster ride in the rich history of Wildcat men’s basketball.
Despite the challenging times during the Jim Wooldrige era, the resurgence under Bob Huggins and Frank Martin, and the highs and lows of Bruce Weber’s coaching, one constant remains: the passion of the fans. Long before Bill Snyder changed the landscape for K-State football, the university boasted a rich basketball tradition. This fervor endures, shaped by experiences ranging from neck braces to miraculous finds and lucrative NIL deals.
While fans have endured their share of setbacks in the last 25 years, they have also witnessed significant triumphs, particularly from players highlighted in this article. The Mercury’s K-State men’s basketball All-Quarter Century honor roll showcases the finest talent the Wildcats have exhibited since the 2000-01 season.
This compilation features two separate five-player teams, along with an honorable mentions section for those who narrowly missed the top tiers.
First Team
Jacob Pullen
Pullen stands out as one of the top five Wildcats in the last 25 years and is esteemed in school history. As the all-time leading scorer and first three-time team captain, he garnered three All-Big 12 selections and a third-team All-American title in 2010. He was instrumental in leading the Wildcats to an Elite Eight finish in 2010, where they achieved a school-record 29 wins. He won the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award in 2011 and is the only Wildcat with over 1,800 points, 400 assists, 300 rebounds, and 200 steals. Pullen’s influence has endured, as he continues to play professionally across multiple countries.
Barry Brown
A fierce competitor on both ends, Brown came to K-State as a relatively unknown recruit but left as one of the best players during the Bruce Weber period. He became the first Wildcat to win the conference’s Defensive Player of the Year award since the late 70s and holds the school record for steals at 254. Brown played a pivotal role during his 139-game career, leading K-State to three NCAA Tournament appearances, notably an Elite Eight run in 2018. After his time in the G-League, he has continued his professional career overseas.
Rodney McGruder
Ending a 36-year conference championship drought, McGruder’s tenure was marked by success during Bruce Weber’s initial season. As the seventh-leading scorer in K-State history, he played a crucial role on the team, notably hitting a game-winning three-pointer against Baylor in his senior year. He currently ranks among the top 10 in numerous career categories despite going undrafted.
Second Team
Markquis Nowell
Nowell quickly became a legend in March Madness, earning accolades as a fantastic point guard in just two seasons. In 2023, he won the Bob Cousy Point Guard Award and was recognized as a Third Team All-American. His impressive statistics during the 2022-23 season helped K-State secure 26 wins and an Elite Eight appearance.
Wesley Iwundu
During his time with the Wildcats, Iwundu became the first player in school history to achieve over 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, 300 assists, and 100 steals. He was an exceptional passer and received multiple All-Conference honors during his career, eventually being drafted in 2017.
Honorable Mentions
Several notable players who impacted K-State basketball but did not make the top teams include Jeremiah Massey, Lance Harris, David Hoskins, Henry “Bill” Walker, Denis Clemente, Curtis Kelly, and many others. Their contributions to the program enrich the legacy of Wildcat basketball.
