Jug of Snyder
Fansided

A game-changer on the way? Kansas State has a big visitor this week

Bowling Green forward Marcus Johnson, a high-scoring, 265-pound transfer, could be missing piece to Wildcats’ frontcourt puzzle
ByBen Spicer|
Michigan State center Carson Cooper (15) defends Bowling Green forward Marcus Johnson (6) during the second half at Breslin Center in East Lansing on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024.
Michigan State center Carson Cooper (15) defends Bowling Green forward Marcus Johnson (6) during the second half at Breslin Center in East Lansing on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024. | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Kansas State is eyeing Bowling Green forward Marcus Johnson as a key transfer target, with the veteran big man set to visit Manhattan on Wednesday, according to media sources.

The 6-foot-7, 265-pound senior made a name for himself in the MAC last season, averaging 16.2 points and 5.2 rebounds per game for the Falcons.

He brings a rare mix of power and shooting touch, connecting on nearly 40% of his attempts from three-point range while serving as a strong interior presence.

One of the most efficient scorers in the conference, Johnson led the MAC in free-throw shooting at 89.9% (79-for-88), setting a new Bowling Green program record for single-season percentage.

He also paced the Falcons with 13 20-point games, highlighted by a 28-point performance against the Toledo Rockets on Jan. 24.

Though listed as a senior, Johnson has one season of eligibility remaining. He spent the past two years at Bowling Green after transferring from Division II Wheeling University and began his college career at Parkland Junior College.

Kansas State has been active in the transfer portal this offseason as head coach Jerome Tang looks to rebuild the roster following several key departures. Johnson would bring veteran experience, scoring versatility, and physicality to the Wildcats’ frontcourt.

Kansas State currently returns only three players from last season: point guard David Castillo and forwards Mobi Ikegwuruka and Taj Manning.

The Wildcats have secured commitments from Akron guard Nate Johnson, the MAC Player of the Year; Abdi Bashir, a 6-foot-7 sophomore guard from Omaha, Nebraska; and Khamari McGriff, a transfer forward from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.

Kansas State finished the season 16–17 overall and 9–11 in Big 12 play, tying for ninth place in the conference.

READ MORE: K-State roster rebuild continues as 2025 commit reopens recruitment

READ MORE: Transfer from UNCW commits to Cats following active portal day

READ MORE: Kansas State transfer Brendan Hausen commits to Iowa