Will Wade is making a return to LSU after a year at the helm of NC State's men's basketball team. The Wolfpack wrapped up their season with a 20-14 record, bowing out in the First Four of the 2026 NCAA Tournament against fellow No. 11 seed, Texas.
With the transfer portal opening on April 7, NC State is on the clock to find a new head coach and staff before recruiting kicks into high gear. Let’s dive into some potential candidates for the Wolfpack’s vacancy.
Josh Schertz, Head Coach at Saint Louis
Josh Schertz is a seasoned coach with a strong track record. His experience and strategic mind could be a great fit for NC State as they look to build on their recent performances.
Gainey, Respected Assistant Coach
Gainey is a familiar face around NC State, having played point guard for the Wolfpack and kick-starting his coaching career there. His deep ties to the program and respected status make him a compelling candidate.
Tony Skinn, Head Coach at George Mason
Tony Skinn is making waves in the coaching world, having led George Mason to a 23-10 record and an NIT appearance in 2025-26. With a 70-31 record over three seasons, his success at the mid-major level is turning heads for high-major opportunities.
Mike White, Head Coach at Georgia
Mike White brings a wealth of experience from power conferences, with previous roles at Louisiana Tech and Florida before his current stint at Georgia. With two consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances in 2025 and 2026, his leadership could be exactly what NC State needs.
Mark Byington, Head Coach at Vanderbilt
Mark Byington has been a standout in the coaching carousel, guiding Vanderbilt to a 27-9 record in the competitive SEC and reaching the second round of the NCAA Tournament. With a career record of 260-155, Byington’s experience and success make him a strong contender.
As NC State navigates this crucial hiring process, these candidates offer a range of strengths and experiences that could shape the future of the Wolfpack program.