Kansas State men’s basketball went through major roster changes following the 2025–26 season, highlighted by the loss of center Dorin Buca. His exit left a sizable hole in the frontcourt, one of the most difficult positions to replace at the college level.
The price of quality big men in college basketball has surged dramatically. A recent projection suggested that elite centers, such as former Kansas standout Flory Bidunga, could command NIL deals approaching $5 million—figures described as resetting the entire big man market.
That level of money has reshaped player decisions. When top post players can earn that much while retaining college eligibility, the pressure to leave early for the NBA purely for financial reasons is reduced. If the money is already available, staying in school becomes a far more attractive option.
For programs like Kansas State, though, numbers anywhere close to that range simply aren’t feasible. Even across much of the Power Four, that kind of spending isn’t sustainable. That reality is where players like JT Rock become especially important.
Rock spent a redshirt season at Iowa State under head coach T.J. Otzelberger, developing within one of the nation’s strongest programs. Although he didn’t see game action, he trained daily in a winning environment and improved alongside proven contributors.
That Cyclones roster featured players such as Milan Momcilovic, Tamin Lipsey, Tre King, and Hasan Ward, all of whom played key roles on a team that won the Big 12 Tournament and advanced to the Sweet 16.
Those experiences don’t show up in NIL price tags, but they matter. Players like Rock bring toughness, development, and valuable behind-the-scenes experience. In a landscape increasingly driven by money, those qualities are harder to find—but just as important.
There is a clear opportunity for Rock to contribute in the paint, especially if he earns a spot in the starting lineup. His ability to score in the midrange and provide a reliable interior option could help stabilize the offense. The biggest factor will be how many minutes he receives.
If head coach Jerome Tang uses Rock in a role similar to Buca’s—primarily coming off the bench—it could shift the team’s overall approach. With forwards like Andrej Kostic and Isaiah Abraham, Kansas State could lean more toward perimeter scoring and outside shooting.
Finding the right balance between interior presence and perimeter firepower will be key to the Wildcats’ success. If Rock settles into his role and delivers consistent production, there is plenty for Kansas State fans to be excited about moving forward.