UTEP transfer Kaosi Ezeagu receives NCAA waiver to play immediately for Kansas State
The Kansas State basketball team has received some good news that could potentially have a big impact on its front court next season.
Sophomore forward Kaosi Ezeagu has received a waiver from the NCAA that will allow the 6-foot-10 big man to play immediately for the Wildcats next season after transferring to K-State from UTEP.
Ezeagu’s playing status was in doubt when he originally enrolled at K-State in January. As a mid-year transfer, some thought he might have to wait until the spring semester began to start playing for the Wildcats. But that will not be the case.
After sitting out last season, Ezeagu will be eligible to play in ever game next season and have three years of college eligibility remaining.
“We are excited for Kaosi that he was able to gain this waiver and become immediately eligible,” K-State coach Bruce Weber said in a statement. “When we signed him, I thought he filled a big need, giving us an older, experienced big guy that has played Division I basketball. He made big strides on the court and in the weight room this past semester and helped raise the physicality and competitive spirit in practice.”
Ezeagu figures to challenge for a starting spot inside next season following the departures of Makol Mawien, James Love, Nigel Shadd and Levi Stockard.
He joins returning forwards Antonio Gordon and Montavious Murphy, as well as newcomers Carlton Linguard, Davion Bradford and Seryee Lewis.
Ezeagu averaged 3.2 points and 3.4 rebounds while also leading UTEP in blocks as a freshman.
With only four returning scholarship players on the roster, K-State will welcome his previous college experience at the beginning of the season.
Ezeagu was born in the Bahamas but went to prep school in Brampton, Ontario before beginning his college career at UTEP.