A major roster shake-up is unfolding in Manhattan as Kansas State prepares for a new chapter, with one of its most promising young contributors opting to explore opportunities elsewhere. The decision comes at a pivotal moment for the program, which is navigating a coaching transition and reevaluating its direction heading into the offseason. While movement in the transfer portal has become increasingly common across college basketball, this particular departure underscores the broader changes taking place within the Wildcats’ locker room and leadership structure.
Kansas State guard David Castillo is expected to enter the NCAA transfer portal, according to On3. During the most recent campaign, he averaged 10.3 points per game for the Wildcats, showcasing flashes of his scoring ability and potential as a backcourt playmaker.
His decision to move on does not come as a shock, especially considering the program’s recent upheaval. Former head coach Jerome Tang was dismissed before the season concluded, ending the tenure under which Castillo initially committed to the Wildcats ahead of the 2024–25 season. In the aftermath, Kansas State turned to Casey Alexander, formerly of Belmont, to lead the program into a new era.
Castillo arrived in Manhattan with significant expectations. A four-star prospect in the Rivals Industry Rankings, he was tabbed as the No. 61 overall player in the 2024 recruiting class and ranked among the top point guards nationally. He also carried the distinction of being the top-rated recruit out of Kansas, further elevating anticipation around his collegiate debut.
Despite being the lone freshman on the roster, he carved out a consistent role, appearing in 32 of the team’s 33 games. His development was closely watched, especially given his impressive high school résumé, where he accumulated nearly 1,700 career points and averaged 22.4 points per game. Those numbers reflected a proven scoring instinct that Kansas State hoped would translate to the collegiate level.
Beyond his domestic success, Castillo also gained valuable international experience representing Team USA. He secured two gold medals, first at the 2021 FIBA U16 Americas Championship in Xalapa, Mexico, and later at the 2022 FIBA U17 World Cup in Malaga, Spain. During those tournaments, he competed alongside elite talents such as Ron Holland, Rob Dillingham, Cooper Flagg, Asa Newell, and DJ Wagner, further highlighting the caliber of player he was projected to become.
As he enters the transfer portal ahead of his junior season, Castillo will have two remaining years of eligibility, giving him ample time to make an impact at his next destination. Meanwhile, Kansas State is expected to be active in reshaping its roster under Alexander, particularly with the portal opening on April 7, just one day after the national championship game.