The AfterShocks are back at Charles Koch Arena with one goal in mind: defend their championship in The Basketball Tournament. But despite returning much of last year's title-winning core, the Wichita State alumni team isn't letting success change its mentality.
Veterans Conner Frankamp, Rashard Kelly, Markis McDuffie and Zach Bush are leading the way once again, joined by several new former Shockers looking to help the team make another deep postseason run. The mix of familiar faces and fresh talent has created plenty of excitement as preparations continue.
Even after capturing last year's championship, players say they're approaching this tournament with the same chip on their shoulder that fueled their title run. The team wants to play with the mentality of an underdog, knowing every opponent will be eager to knock off the defending champions.
Newcomers have quickly noticed the team's chemistry and competitive atmosphere, saying the returning veterans have built a culture that makes joining the AfterShocks an easy transition. That experience, combined with the addition of several former Wichita State standouts, has the team confident it has another championship-caliber roster.
The AfterShocks open their 2026 TBT run Monday at Charles Koch Arena, where they'll look to take the first step toward becoming back-to-back champions in the winner-take-all tournament.
