The greatest player in Kansas State history was one and done.

No surprise, really, that Michael Beasley sought NBA riches after his freshman season and was picked second in the draft. The magnificently talented forward -- 6-10 by K-State's count and 6-7 according to some scouts -- averaged 26.2 points and 12.4 rebounds, the best marks ever by a Wildcat, or a Big 12 player.

His presence, coupled with another early draft entrant, forward Bill Walker, boosted Kansas State to its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 12 years as the Wildcats finished 21-12 overall and 10-6 in the Big 12.

So now, what does coach Frank Martin accomplish in his second season?

Throughout the 2007-08 season, Martin's credentials were questioned as his hire was considered the only way Kansas State could protect Beasley, the most highly acclaimed recruit in the program's history.

Now, Martin definitely must prove he can get solid play out of his squad. Some choose to forget, however, that he delivered an NCAA berth despite giving extended minutes to seven newcomers and losing a top veteran, David Hoskins, to a preseason knee injury. With Beasley, it was easy to assume Kansas State should just roll out the basketballs and win games, but there is a higher degree of difficulty to the sport.

That difficulty manifests itself now in another way as Martin attempts to plug role players from last year's team, such as point guard Jacob Pullen, swingman Dominique Sutton and power forward Ron Anderson, into key roles. Newcomers may not provide a huge lift, though junior Denis Clemente could provide some backcourt firepower after transferring last season from Miami.

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