“We’re going to win and we’re going to win big at NC State,” declared Will Wade, the current head coach of NC State, as he addressed the media following a challenging season. Wade’s confidence comes on the heels of a 20-14 record in his first year at the helm, despite his team losing eight of their final ten games.
Wade, who previously coached LSU from 2017 to 2022, led the Tigers to three NCAA Tournaments during his tenure. However, his departure from LSU was marred by controversy, as he was fired amid NCAA allegations. “Wade was at the center of several allegations,” a source noted, reflecting the tumultuous end to his time in Baton Rouge.
After signing a lucrative six-year contract worth over $17 million with NC State, Wade expressed his commitment to rebuilding the program. “Let me be very clear: I’m excited at NC State,” he emphasized, indicating a long-term vision for success. He acknowledged that the process would not be immediate, stating, “This wasn’t going to take one year.”
As Wade looks to establish a winning culture at NC State, questions linger about his future. If he were to leave before April 1, 2026, he would owe the school a $5 million buyout, a figure that decreases to $3 million after that date. This financial consideration adds a layer of complexity to ongoing rumors about a potential return to LSU.
Meanwhile, Matt McMahon, who replaced Wade at LSU, has struggled to make an impact, failing to reach the NCAA Tournament in any of his seasons. This has led to speculation about McMahon’s job security, particularly if Wade were to become available.
Wade’s career coaching record stands at an impressive 266-119 over 12 seasons, highlighting his ability to lead teams to victory. His largest margin of victory at NC State was a commanding 82-58 win against rival North Carolina, showcasing his potential to elevate the program.
As the college basketball landscape continues to evolve, the dynamics surrounding Wade’s position at NC State and the future of LSU’s program remain fluid. Details remain unconfirmed regarding whether Wade will leave NC State for LSU, leaving fans and analysts alike on edge.
