Jerome Tang Steps Into a New Role at Markquis Nowell’s Wedding

Tang’s connection with Nowell isn’t the result of a standard player-coach dynamic. Even before becoming Kansas State’s head coach, Tang identified Nowell’s potential while serving as an assistant at Baylor. He watched film, advocated for Nowell to his staff, and later made keeping him a priority when taking over at K-State.

Nowell, one of the Wildcats’ top performers in recent Big 12 seasons, set an NCAA Tournament single-game assists record (19 against Michigan State) and earned First-Team All-Big 12 honors before moving on to the pro ranks, currently playing in the G League.

This weekend’s ceremony wasn’t just a gesture of friendship; it underscored the culture Tang has instilled at Kansas State, a program built on deep relationships and mutual respect. Few coach-player bonds run deeper, and Tang officiating Nowell’s wedding is a vivid reminder.

The Wildcats’ program has become a place where personal connections are valued as much as on-court results, a philosophy Tang has emphasized since earning Naismith Coach of the Year honors in 2023. Nowell’s day off the court reflects that ethos in full.

For Tang, this wasn’t a ceremonial sideshow; it was a statement: these are people first, Wildcats always. Coaches and players often say they’re close, but few publicly affirm it like this.