MANHATTAN, Kan. — In a move that will surely thrill Kansas State fans, standout guard Zyanna Walker has officially withdrawn from the NCAA transfer portal and will return to the Wildcats for the 2025–26 season.
The Wichita native, who started all 36 games last season and averaged 8.2 points and 3.8 rebounds, issued a heartfelt statement on Tuesday morning, confirming her commitment to K-State.
“K-State is the only place I feel at home,” Walker said. “After some time to reflect, I realized how much this program, this community, and my teammates mean to me. I’m excited to be back and ready to give it everything I’ve got.”
Walker initially entered the transfer portal last week, prompting uncertainty about the Wildcats’ backcourt. But her return brings back not only experience and production, but also leadership and stability to a team that is aiming to build on last season’s historic Sweet 16 run — the program’s first in over two decades.
Head coach Jeff Mittie welcomed the decision with open arms.
“Zyanna is a key part of our culture and what we’re building,” Mittie said. “She’s worked hard, grown every year, and her love for this place is real. Having her back is huge for us.”
Walker transferred to Kansas State from Louisville and has since become a fan favorite. Known for her hustle, defense, and clutch play, she played an integral role in one of K-State’s most successful seasons in recent memory.
With two years of eligibility remaining, her return gives Wildcat fans a renewed sense of hope for an even deeper postseason push next year.
“Returning to this team, these coaches, and this fan base just feels right,” Walker added. “We’ve got unfinished business.”
