We continue our recruit and return series with the Kansas State Wildcats, whose season ended with an Elite Eight loss to Loyola-Chicago. A look at what the 2018-19 season could hold for Bruce Weber and the Wildcats:
Possible 2018-19 starting five:
G: Xavier Sneed
F: Dean Wade
F: Makol Mawien
Who is lost: Unless Dean Wade or Barry Brown test the NBA draft waters -- which is a possibility -- the Wildcats aren't slated to lose any scholarship players. The only senior on the 2017-18 roster was a walk-on, meaning every key player is expected to be back in 2018-19.
Who is added: The recruiting class is understandably small given the roster situation, with just a lone player currently signed: point guard Shaun Williams. The 6-foot-3 Saint Louis product is a playmaker who can dish, defend and shoot it.
What it means for next season: If Wade and Brown are back, the Wildcats would likely be predicted for a top-three finish in the Big 12 and a contender for the conference crown. They'll be the only team in the league with multiple all-conference players returning, and Wade will be a candidate for league player of the year. The stage would be set for a big season.
Trending: Up. The Wildcats were picked for eighth in the Big 12 in 2017-18 but finished fourth. With everything they have returning, another step forward in the standings is in order.