Report: NC State has hired former LSU coach Will Wade as its men’s basketball head coach.
Will Wade’s journey as a basketball coach is one marked by success, challenges, and resilience. He first gained significant recognition during his time at Chattanooga, where, despite limited resources, he managed to elevate the program to new heights. His ability to quickly turn around a team that had struggled in previous seasons caught the attention of major programs across the country. His success at Chattanooga, where he led the Mocs to an impressive 22-10 record in the 2014-2015 season, set the stage for his next career move—becoming the head coach at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU).
At VCU, Wade continued to prove his mettle as a rising star in the college basketball coaching world. Under his leadership, VCU became a force in the Atlantic 10 Conference, earning NCAA tournament bids in both of his seasons at the helm. The team’s aggressive style of play and their emphasis on defense and pace caught the attention of basketball fans and professionals alike. Wade’s teams were known for their intensity and fast-paced tempo, making them difficult opponents for teams across the country.
This success at VCU ultimately paved the way for his arrival at LSU in 2017, where he took over a team that had been struggling to find its identity. At LSU, Wade experienced both triumph and turmoil, as the team showed flashes of brilliance but also faced significant off-the-court issues. On the court, he delivered impressive results, including an SEC regular-season title in 2019 and multiple NCAA tournament appearances. His tenure at LSU, however, was also marked by controversy related to NCAA investigations into recruiting violations. These controversies were a significant factor in Wade’s departure from LSU, though his legal battles were ultimately settled without major sanctions against him.
Despite these challenges, Wade’s ability to win games and recruit top-tier talent never went unnoticed. His aggressive recruiting style, combined with his coaching acumen, earned him a reputation as a coach who could elevate any program he was a part of. That reputation, however, was also shadowed by concerns about his approach to recruiting and compliance with NCAA regulations.
After his time at LSU, Wade took over as the head coach at McNeese State in 2023, where he was able to revitalize the program and deliver immediate success. Under his leadership, McNeese State became a contender in the Southland Conference, winning back-to-back conference championships and securing a place in the NCAA tournament. Wade’s success at McNeese was a testament to his ability to adapt and grow as a coach, particularly after a turbulent period at LSU.
The NC State Basketball Landscape
NC State has a storied basketball program, with a rich history of success that includes multiple NCAA championships. However, the program has struggled to reach the heights of its past in recent years, with inconsistent performances in the ACC and a lack of sustained success in the NCAA tournament. The Wolfpack’s last major tournament run came in 2024 when they made it to the Final Four, but the program had seen mixed results leading up to that point.
Kevin Keatts, who had served as the head coach at NC State since 2017, was dismissed after a disappointing 12-19 season, and the Wolfpack faithful were left wondering about the future of the program. NC State’s athletic department was adamant about making a change to revive the team’s competitiveness within the ACC. The ACC, one of the most competitive basketball conferences in the country, has seen teams like Duke, North Carolina, and Virginia dominate, and NC State needed a proven coach capable of competing with these elite programs.
The decision to hire Will Wade was not made lightly. The university was well aware of the controversies surrounding Wade’s past, particularly his tenure at LSU, but they also saw an opportunity to bring in a coach with a track record of success. With Wade’s proven ability to recruit and develop talent, as well as his familiarity with major conferences like the SEC and his ability to navigate the pressures of coaching at a high-profile program, he appeared to be the right fit for the Wolfpack’s needs
What Wade Brings to NC State
Wade’s hiring offers NC State a fresh start, but also a chance to quickly return to competitive form. One of his greatest strengths is his ability to recruit and develop players, particularly top-tier talent. During his time at LSU, Wade brought in some of the best recruits in the country, including five-star prospects. His recruiting prowess will be a key factor in NC State’s efforts to compete with the powerhouses in the ACC.
Additionally, Wade’s coaching style, which emphasizes fast-paced, high-pressure defense and an up-tempo offense, will be a major shift for NC State. This style of play is designed to wear down opponents and create scoring opportunities, often catching teams off guard. His ability to adapt his system to fit his players will be critical, as NC State will need to build a roster that can execute his vision effectively.
Beyond tactics, Wade’s leadership and competitive fire are qualities that will help shape the culture at NC State. The Wolfpack program has been in need of a coach who can instill a sense of discipline, intensity, and pride—qualities that Wade is known for. His time at McNeese State proved that he could create a winning culture, and he will likely look to do the same at NC State, where there is significant fan support and a strong tradition.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
While Wade brings a wealth of experience and success to NC State, his hiring is not without potential challenges. The most obvious concern is the legacy of NCAA violations and the cloud of controversy that followed him during his time at LSU. Wade’s legal battles and the resulting fallout have left some questioning his character and integrity, and there may be lingering skepticism about whether he can maintain compliance with NCAA regulations moving forward.
The NC State administration and athletic department will be keeping a close eye on Wade’s conduct, both in terms of his recruiting practices and his overall approach to the program. The Wolfpack faithful will also be watching closely to see if Wade can navigate these challenges and build a sustainable, successful program while staying in the NCAA’s good graces.
Moreover, NC State’s expectations will be high. The Wolfpack are a proud program with a rich history, and fans will expect immediate results from Wade. The ACC is one of the toughest conferences in college basketball, and Wade will need to make adjustments quickly in order to keep pace with the likes of Duke, North Carolina, and Virginia. The pressure to win early will be immense, especially given the past seasons of mediocrity.
On the flip side, Wade’s appointment also offers numerous opportunities. If he can successfully recruit and build a competitive team, NC State could quickly return to being a contender in the ACC and nationally. The Wolfpack have the potential to attract top-tier recruits, and Wade’s experience in navigating the competitive recruiting landscape could give them an edge. Additionally, his knowledge of coaching in high-pressure environments will serve him well as he faces off against some of the top coaches in the country.
Looking to the Future
The future of NC State basketball under Will Wade is filled with both excitement and uncertainty. On the one hand, Wade’s track record of success, his recruiting ability, and his coaching acumen provide a solid foundation for optimism. On the other hand, his past controversies, the pressures of the ACC, and the high expectations from fans and the administration will test his ability to navigate the challenges ahead.
For NC State, hiring Wade represents a bold gamble—one that could either lead to a renaissance for the program or result in further disappointment. The next few seasons will be crucial in determining whether Wade’s style and leadership can bring the Wolfpack back to national prominence. If he can deliver, NC State may find itself in the thick of the ACC race, vying for championships and NCAA tournament bids once again.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on NC State, eagerly watching to see how Wade’s tenure unfolds. Will he bring back the glory days of NC State basketball, or will the program remain in a state of flux? Only time will tell, but the excitement surrounding his hiring is palpable, and the stakes could not be higher.