Will Wade Dismisses LSU Rumors, Focuses on NC State's Future
In the wake of swirling rumors about a potential return to LSU, NC State coach Will Wade is keeping his eyes firmly on the Wolfpack. Addressing speculation after NC State's 81-74 loss to Virginia in the ACC tournament quarterfinals, Wade was quick to downplay any Baton Rouge reunion talk.
“Is the job open there? No?”
Wade quipped, brushing off the chatter with a focus on the task at hand. With a 20-13 record and a strong position for an NCAA Tournament bid, Wade is already planning for NC State's future.
He’s engaged in discussions with the administration about necessary program changes as he heads into his second year in Raleigh, committed to winning big.
“This year hasn’t gone exactly how we wanted it to,” Wade acknowledged. “But we’re gonna rally, work hard, and have a team next year that’s ready to roll.”
Wade's track record speaks volumes. During his tenure at LSU, he consistently led the Tigers to the NCAA Tournament, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2019.
However, his departure in 2022 was marked by controversy due to NCAA recruiting violations. Despite these challenges, Wade's coaching prowess remains evident.
His successor at LSU, Matt McMahon, has struggled to replicate Wade’s success, with only one winning season and no NCAA Tournament appearances in four years. The Tigers have faced tough times in SEC play, and a change would come at a steep price, with an $8 million buyout on McMahon's contract.
Wade, however, is unfazed by external noise. “I’m not on social media, I’m not into the gossip,” he stated.
“We’re gonna win and win big at NC State. That’s our focus moving forward.”
After leaving LSU, Wade took the helm at McNeese State, achieving remarkable success by winning the Southland Conference twice and leading the Cowboys to consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. His stint included an impressive upset over Clemson as a No. 12 seed.
As for his former team, Wade tuned in to watch McNeese State's recent triumph in the Southland Conference tournament final. His journey continues, but for now, Wade’s sights are set on building a powerhouse at NC State, leaving the past behind and embracing the future with determination.