Wade Returns to LSU, Leaving NC State in Coaching Search
In a stunning turn of events, NC State’s Will Wade has agreed to return to LSU as head basketball coach, just over a year after taking the helm in Raleigh. The move comes less than 72 hours after North Carolina fired Hubert Davis, creating a second high-profile coaching vacancy in the ACC.
LSU leadership approached Wade late Tuesday night about a potential return, setting off a rapid sequence of events that culminated in Wade’s acceptance of the job and the dismissal of current LSU coach Matt McMahon on Thursday morning, according to CBS Sports’ Matt Norlander.
LSU’s Aggressive Pursuit of Wade
The hiring of Wade wasn’t a traditional, publicly advertised search. Instead, LSU President Wade Rouse, backed by the school’s Board of Supervisors, spearheaded a behind-the-scenes effort to bring Wade back to Baton Rouge. Louisiana governor Jeff Landry was not a central figure in the hire, unlike the recent football coaching change with Lane Kiffin.
What Drove Wade Back to LSU?
Wade’s decision wasn’t solely about LSU reaching out. It centered on the resources the program could offer. Sources indicate Wade recently requested a significant increase in staff salaries and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) funding to compete at the highest level in the ACC. NC State, which operated with approximately $9 million in roster-building resources this past season, was unable or unwilling to meet those demands.
LSU, however, is projected to exceed $10 million in NIL and roster resources for the 2026-27 season. This financial gap, combined with a greater commitment to investing in staff, proved to be the decisive factor in Wade’s departure after just one season at NC State.
The financial commitment extends to Wade’s contract, which is expected to exceed $4 million annually over seven years. This is a significant increase from his previous salary of just over $2.5 million at NC State, despite finishing the 2026 season with a 20-14 record and a First Four loss in the NCAA Tournament.
Financial Implications for Both Schools
The coaching changes come with substantial financial implications. NC State has a $5 million buyout for Wade (decreasing to $3 million after April 1), while LSU faces an $8 million buyout for McMahon, who had three years remaining on his contract. LSU’s aggressive spending extends beyond basketball, with a seven-year, $91 million contract for football coach Lane Kiffin and a $54 million payout to former football coach Brian Kelly.
NC State’s Search for a Replacement
NC State is now embarking on its third coaching search in as many years. Sources told CBS Sports’ Matt Norlander that the school hadn’t yet selected a search firm as of Thursday afternoon, indicating the process is still in its early stages. Several names have emerged as potential candidates:
- Josh Schertz, St. Louis coach: Considered a top candidate, but potentially unattainable due to financial constraints at NC State.
- Justin Gainey, Tennessee associate head coach: A former NC State point guard, Gainey could be an attractive option with ties to the program.
- Travis Steele, Miami (Ohio) coach: Steele led Miami University to a successful season, including an upset in the NCAA Tournament.
- Bob Richey, Furman coach: Richey has achieved success at Furman, with multiple NCAA Tournament appearances.
- Mike White, Georgia coach: White has led Georgia to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances.
- Flynn Clayman, High Point coach: Clayman is a rising star in the coaching ranks, leading High Point to a strong season and an NCAA Tournament upset.
With both North Carolina and NC State now seeking new leadership, the coaching carousel in the ACC is expected to continue.
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