Renowned college basketball analyst Dick Vitale claims K-State transfer Coleman Hawkins possesses “star ability.”
Praise continues to pour in for coach Jerome Tang and the Kansas State basketball program following the addition of Illinois transfer Coleman Hawkins.
Hawkins, who chose to play another college season instead of entering the NBA draft, was seen as the top prospect in the transfer portal. Even veteran ESPN analyst Dick Vitale commended Tang for securing the transfer.
Here’s what Vitale shared on X, previously known as Twitter, about Hawkins joining the Wildcats: “A big day for & as they add to their impressive roster COLEMAN HAWKINS who has star ability. They are jumping with joy in Manhattan as Coach Tang is AWESOME BABY!”
Hawkins is the ninth player the Wildcats have acquired through the transfer portal. After playing a crucial role in helping Illinois reach the Elite Eight, he chose college over the NBA due to more lucrative NIL offers.
Hawkins, who was projected to be an undrafted free agent in the NBA, is expected to secure a $2 million NIL deal. His addition significantly strengthens the Wildcats, making them a formidable contender in the Big 12. He will enhance the frontcourt, having averaged 12.1 points and 6.1 rebounds for Illinois last season. He recorded five points and four rebounds in the Elite Eight loss to eventual champion UConn.
Joining Hawkins in the K-State portal are:
– Achor Achor, Samford
– Baye Fall, Arkansas
– Brendan Hausen, Villanova
– Mobi Ikegwuruka, Iowa Community College
– C.J. Jones, Illinois-Chicago
– Max Jones, Cal State-Fullerton
– Dug McDaniel, Michigan
– Ugonna Onyenso, Kentucky
Shandel Richardson is the publisher of K State On SI.
