Kansas State & Kansas to Compete in 2026 Players Era Tournament in Las Vegas

Photo via Big 12 Conference

Kansas State & Kansas men’s basketball has officially accepted an invitation to participate in the 2026 Players Era Men’s Championship, a major early‑season college basketball event set for Thanksgiving week in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Wildcats and Jayhawks will be two of eight Big 12 teams competing in the expanded 32‑team field next season. They joins fellow conference members Baylor, Houston, Iowa State, TCU, Texas Tech and West Virginia as part of a first‑of‑its‑kind agreement between the Big 12 Conference and Players Era that guarantees eight league bids in the event each year.

The Players Era Championship has quickly grown since its 2024 debut, expanding from eight teams to 18 in 2025 and now planning a 32‑team field in 2026. Games are held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena and Michelob Ultra Arena during the Thanksgiving holiday

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“K‑State is excited about the opportunity to play in the Players Era next season,” head coach Jerome Tang said. “It has become the preeminent in‑season tournament for college basketball, and we can’t wait for our players to enjoy a top‑notch experience in the Entertainment Capital of the World.”

Additional tournament details, including game dates and opponents, will be released as the 2026 schedule develops.