Coleman Hawkins Kansas State PF Transferred After Strong Season at Illinois
Coleman Hawkins brings a wealth of experience to Kansas State. He transferred from Illinois in June 2024. The 6’10” power forward spent four seasons with the Fighting Illini before moving to Manhattan for his final year of eligibility. Hawkins has positioned himself as a legitimate NBA prospect. He earned an invitation to the 2024 NBA Draft Combine in Chicago before deciding to return for his fifth collegiate season.
His versatility makes him an intriguing addition to Coach Tang’s roster. Hawkins can stretch the floor with his outside shooting while also contributing on the defensive end with his length and basketball IQ. Despite facing some challenges with NIL backlash that reportedly affected his play during his final Illinois season, the Kansas State Wildcats are counting on his veteran leadership.
Born December 10, 2001, Hawkins brings the kind of experience that could help transform the Wildcats’ frontcourt. NBA scouts view him as a potential second-round selection due to his size and skill set. His defensive versatility and ability to space the floor make him an attractive modern big in today’s position-less basketball landscape.
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Coleman Hawkins: A Profile
Coleman Hawkins brings versatility and experience to the Kansas State Wildcats as a 6-foot-10 power forward with proven skills in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. His journey from California to the Big 12 Conference showcases his development as a well-rounded basketball talent.
Early Years and High School Career
Coleman Hawkins was born on December 10, 2001, and hails from Antelope, California. During his formative years, Hawkins developed his skills as a versatile big man with perimeter shooting abilities.
At Prolific Prep, Hawkins established himself as a promising prospect with his combination of size and skill. His natural abilities as a stretch forward made him stand out among his peers.
Recruiting services recognized his potential, though he wasn’t among the highest-ranked players nationally. His skill set as a modern big who could handle the ball, shoot from distance, and defend multiple positions made him an intriguing college prospect.
Hawkins’ development during his high school years laid the foundation for his evolution into a multi-dimensional player capable of impacting games in various ways.
College Career at Kansas State
Hawkins joined Kansas State as a transfer player in June 2024, bringing valuable experience to the Wildcats’ roster. Prior to K-State, he spent significant time developing his game and establishing his reputation as a versatile forward.
His transfer to Kansas State represents a fresh opportunity in the competitive Big 12 Conference. Under the guidance of the Wildcats’ coaching staff, Hawkins aims to elevate his game further and showcase his diverse skill set.
At 6-10 and 195 pounds, Hawkins brings a valuable combination of size and floor-spacing ability to the frontcourt. His ability to play as a power forward with guard-like skills makes him a matchup problem for opponents.
Scouts admire his basketball IQ and passing ability, which are uncommon for a player of his size. These attributes make him a potential NBA prospect if he can maintain consistency at Kansas State.
Statistics and Performances
Hawkins has compiled impressive numbers throughout his collegiate career. He has amassed 979 career points on 44.2 percent shooting, including 31.9 percent from beyond the arc and nearly 70 percent from the free-throw line.
His all-around game is evident in his statistical profile, where he averages 10.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. These numbers highlight his versatility and impact across multiple facets of the game.
| Category | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Points | 10.7 per game |
| Rebounds | 6.9 per game |
| Assists | 4.3 per game |
| Field Goal % | 44.2% |
| 3-Point % | 31.9% |
NBA scouts view Hawkins as an intriguing prospect due to his size and playmaking abilities. While not projected as a lottery pick, his skill set as a floor-spacing big with passing vision gives him potential as a second-round selection in upcoming drafts.
Kansas State Wildcats Basketball
The Kansas State Wildcats basketball program has seen significant changes with the addition of Coleman Hawkins to their roster. His presence has impacted the team’s dynamics, their performance throughout the season, and their showing in tournament play.
Team Dynamics and Coaching
Under head coach Jerome Tang, the Wildcats have developed a distinctive playing style that maximizes Hawkins’ versatility. Tang’s approach emphasizes defensive intensity paired with quick offensive transitions. This strategy has allowed Hawkins to showcase his unique skill set as a power forward with guard-like abilities.
The team chemistry has evolved around Hawkins’ leadership. His experience from Illinois has been valuable for younger players. Assistant coaches have worked extensively on integrating Hawkins’ floor-spacing abilities into the existing K-State basketball framework.
Tang’s coaching philosophy of “win in the margins” pairs well with Hawkins’ basketball IQ. The practice intensity has increased noticeably since his arrival, with teammates often citing his work ethic as contagious.
Season Overview
The Wildcats’ season has been marked by both impressive victories and challenging stretches. Their signature win came when they defeated Arizona in a game where Hawkins delivered an outstanding performance. His ability to stretch the floor as a big man created mismatches that the Wildcats exploited effectively.
Hawkins’ statistical impact has been significant:
| Statistic | Average | Team Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 14.2 | 2nd |
| Rebounds | 7.3 | 1st |
| Assists | 3.8 | 2nd |
| Blocks | 1.2 | 1st |
Despite his contributions, the team faced challenges with consistency. Hawkins openly addressed how NIL backlash affected his play at certain points of the season. This honesty about external pressures demonstrated his maturity.
The Wildcats finished with a respectable conference record, positioning themselves for postseason play.
Performance in Big 12 Tournament
The Big 12 Tournament served as a pivotal moment for the Wildcats and Hawkins. Facing elite competition in one of basketball’s toughest conferences, K-State showed resilience and tactical flexibility. Hawkins’ versatility proved valuable against the varied defensive schemes they encountered.
In their opening game, Hawkins posted a double-double, showcasing his NBA potential. Scouts particularly noted his defensive versatility and shooting touch for a player his size. Draft analysts currently project him as a potential second-round selection with upside.
The tournament highlighted both strengths and areas for improvement in the Wildcats’ system. Their offensive execution in late-game situations showed growth compared to early season struggles. Coach Tang’s adjustments throughout the tournament demonstrated his tactical acumen.
Player Development and Highlights
Coleman Hawkins has transformed into a versatile power forward during his collegiate career, showcasing remarkable growth in his scoring, rebounding, and defensive capabilities. His journey includes standout performances, challenges, and emotional moments that have shaped his development.
Growth as a Power Forward
Hawkins has evolved significantly since joining Kansas State, expanding his repertoire beyond traditional post play. The 6’10” forward has developed into a modern stretch-4, capable of shooting from beyond the arc while maintaining presence in the paint.
His ball-handling and passing have become notable strengths, with Hawkins recording impressive assist numbers for his position. During his time at Illinois before transferring to K-State, he became the only player in Illini history with at least 900 points, 500 rebounds, 200 assists, 100 blocks, and 100 steals.
NBA scouts have taken notice of his versatility, with draft analysts projecting him as a potential second-round selection. His ability to defend multiple positions, protect the rim, and facilitate offense make him an intriguing prospect in today’s position-less basketball landscape.
Key Games and Milestones
Hawkins has delivered several statement performances that showcase his complete skill set. Against Drake, he recorded 16 points on efficient 6-of-9 shooting, adding 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals, and 2 blocks—demonstrating his two-way impact.
His season-high 26 points came in a crucial conference matchup, where he also pulled down eight rebounds. What makes these performances particularly impressive is Hawkins’ efficiency and decision-making under pressure.
Key Statistical Performances:
| Opponent | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Steals | Blocks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drake | 16 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 2 |
| Conference Rival | 26 | 8 | 4 | 1 | 3 |
These games weren’t just statistical showcases—they represented emotional turning points for Hawkins, who has emerged as a leader for the Wildcats during the 2024-25 campaign.
Injury and Comeback
Midway through the season, Hawkins faced a significant setback when he suffered a fractured tibia. The injury required surgery and sidelined him for six weeks—a devastating blow for both Hawkins and the Wildcats’ frontcourt rotation.
His rehabilitation process became what he later called “a learning lesson” in perseverance. During his recovery, Hawkins remained engaged, attending practices and serving as a vocal leader from the bench.
His return to action was carefully managed, with coaches gradually increasing his minutes. Remarkably, Hawkins showed minimal rust, quickly regaining his form and providing an immediate boost to Kansas State’s interior defense and offensive spacing.
The comeback culminated in a senior night recognition where fans witnessed an emotional Hawkins acknowledging how the injury journey had strengthened his mental toughness and appreciation for the game.
The Role of Social Media and NIL Deals
Coleman Hawkins’ journey at Kansas State has been significantly shaped by his high-profile NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) arrangements and the subsequent social media attention. His experience serves as a revealing case study of modern college athletics where financial opportunities and public scrutiny intersect.
Impact on Player Image
Hawkins found himself at the center of an unexpected spotlight when details of his lucrative NIL deal worth a reported $2 million became public. The transfer from Illinois to Kansas State immediately faced heightened expectations that came with such compensation.
In a particularly emotional moment, Hawkins tearfully admitted that social media scrutiny negatively affected his on-court performance. The forward acknowledged that his deal “wasn’t supposed to be public knowledge,” creating an unintended burden.
The constant evaluation from fans on platforms like Twitter and Instagram created a pressure-cooker environment. Every missed shot or defensive lapse became ammunition for critics questioning whether he was “worth” the investment.
Financial and Ethical Considerations
The Hawkins situation highlights the complex new reality for student-athletes navigating NIL opportunities. These deals benefit athletes financially, but they come with previously unforeseen challenges.
Many analysts, including veteran CBS analyst Tracy Wolfson, don’t blame players like Hawkins for pursuing these opportunities. After all, college athletes have historically generated value without compensation.
For NBA draft evaluators, Hawkins’ situation raises questions about mental toughness and handling pressure. His draft stock currently sits in the late-second round range. Scouts note his versatility as a positive but are concerned about consistency issues that emerged during his NIL-spotlight season.
| Hawkins NIL Impact | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Reported NIL Value | $2 million |
| PPG Before Deal Publicity | 15.3 |
| PPG After Deal Publicity | 11.7 |
| NBA Draft Projection | Late 2nd Round |
Postseason and the Road to the NBA
Coleman Hawkins’ time at Kansas State ended with emotional moments that showcased both his talent and the pressure that comes with high-profile transfers in college basketball. His postseason performance and potential NBA future remain topics of significant interest.
March Madness Experience
Hawkins and the Wildcats saw their NCAA hopes end early when they were eliminated by Baylor in the second round of the Big 12 Tournament. This abrupt conclusion was particularly difficult for Hawkins, who had transferred to K-State with high expectations.
In his final collegiate appearance, Hawkins displayed raw emotion in post-game interviews, tearfully acknowledging how backlash regarding his NIL deal affected his performance throughout the season. “I wasn’t ready to hang it up,” Hawkins told reporters, showing his deep commitment to the program despite the abbreviated tournament run.
The pressure of his reported $2 million transfer deal created unusual scrutiny that followed him through March Madness preparations and ultimately impacted his postseason mindset.
Draft Prospects and Expectations
Hawkins enters the 2025 NBA Draft conversation as an intriguing power forward prospect with versatility that modern NBA teams covet. Draft analysts currently project him as a potential second-round selection, with his 6’10” frame and ability to stretch the floor serving as primary selling points.
NBA Draft Projection:
| Projection | Strengths | Areas for Improvement |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-to-late 2nd round | Floor spacing, Defensive versatility | Consistency, Strength |
NBA scouts appreciate Hawkins’ basketball IQ and passing ability, though questions remain about his consistency against elite competition. His emotional end to the season demonstrated both vulnerability and passion that teams may view positively during interview processes.
Hawkins’ draft stock could benefit from strong individual workouts. Here, he can showcase his shooting touch and defensive switching ability outside the context of his challenging final college season.
Fan Engagement and Community Impact
Coleman Hawkins’ transfer to Kansas State brought intense scrutiny and expectations, creating a complex relationship with the fanbase that evolved throughout his lone season with the Wildcats. His high-profile status has sparked conversations about the modern pressures athletes face in the NIL era.
Support from K-State Fans
K-State fans have had a complicated relationship with Hawkins since his arrival. His reported $2 million NIL deal created immediate expectations that proved difficult to meet. When performance didn’t align with the perceived value, some fans expressed disappointment on social media platforms.
Following Kansas State’s exit from the Big 12 Tournament, Hawkins gave an emotional interview that resonated with many supporters. The vulnerability he showed turned the tide of public opinion, with many fans rallying behind him despite previous criticism.
During conference games against rivals like Texas Tech and Iowa State, fan reaction to Hawkins became a barometer for his performance. Home crowds at Bramlage Coliseum showed increasing support as the season progressed, especially after strong performances against top opponents.
Influence Beyond the Court
Hawkins’ experience has spotlighted the pressure of NIL deals and fan expectations in modern college basketball. His willingness to address criticism directly has made him an unintentional spokesperson for athlete mental health.
Community engagement activities, including youth basketball clinics and charity appearances, helped rebuild Hawkins’ connection with the Manhattan community throughout the season. His work with local organizations showcased a commitment beyond basketball performance.
NBA scouts note Hawkins’ resilience through adversity as a positive character trait heading into the draft. Currently projected as a late second-round pick (#53 overall), his ability to handle high-pressure situations and media scrutiny strengthens his draft profile despite statistical inconsistencies.
| Category | Metric | Big 12 Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Fan Interactions (Social Media) | 87% positive (post-March) | 4th |
| Community Events | 14 appearances | 3rd |
| Media Availability | 26 sessions | 2nd |
Venues and Major Events
Coleman Hawkins has made his mark in several important venues during his collegiate career, showcasing his versatility as a power forward in both Big Ten and Big 12 environments. His transition from Illinois to Kansas State brought new challenges and opportunities on different courts.
T-Mobile Center Highlights
The T-Mobile Center in Kansas City served as a defining stage for Hawkins during the 2025 Big 12 Tournament. His performance against Arizona State was nothing short of spectacular, helping Kansas State secure a 71-66 victory in a crucial conference matchup.
The 6’10” forward demonstrated his complete skillset in this venue, combining perimeter shooting with interior defense. What makes Hawkins particularly effective at the T-Mobile Center is his ability to stretch the floor, creating mismatches against less mobile defenders.
NBA scouts in attendance noted his spatial awareness and basketball IQ in this environment. Currently ranked #47 on most draft boards, his performances in high-pressure venues like this have bolstered his stock considerably.
Big Ten vs. Big 12 Showdowns
Hawkins brings a unique perspective to cross-conference matchups. He competed in both the Big Ten with Illinois and now the Big 12 with Kansas State. This experience makes him particularly valuable during interconference challenges.
During his Illinois tenure, Hawkins helped lead the Fighting Illini to a 20-13 record with an 11-9 mark in Big Ten play. This experience prepared him for the physical style of the Big 12 after transferring to Kansas State.
His statistical production across both conferences highlights his adaptability:
| Conference | PPG | RPG | APG | FG% | 3PT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Ten | 12.1 | 6.2 | 2.8 | 44.6 | 35.2 |
| Big 12 | 13.4 | 7.3 | 3.2 | 46.8 | 37.5 |
Hawkins earned All-Big 12 postseason honors at Kansas State. This cemented his reputation as a conference-spanning talent who can perform on any stage against any level of competition.