Will Wade has confirmed his departure from North Carolina State to assume the head coaching position at Louisiana State University once more. This decision, announced via social media, sees Wade returning to a program he previously led from 2017 to 2022. During his initial tenure with the Tigers, he achieved a commendable 105-51 overall record and guided the team to three NCAA Tournament appearances. His return is fueled by a profound personal connection to the institution, which he refers to as "home," despite having left NC State after just one season.
Wade's prior term at LSU concluded in 2022 following his dismissal amidst an NCAA investigation that resulted in significant penalties for the program. His decision to rejoin the Tigers arrives amid reports regarding LSU's separation from former head coach Matt McMahon. Wade's recent coaching achievements include leading McNeese State to consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances in 2024 and 2025, followed by guiding NC State to a 20-14 record and a spot in the 2026 Big Dance.
The coaching change at LSU coincides with several key appointments within the university's athletic department. Wade Rousse, formerly the president of McNeese State, has been appointed as LSU's system president. Additionally, Heath Schroyer, who served as athletic director at McNeese State, joined LSU as the senior deputy athletic director on Thursday. These personnel changes highlight a significant restructuring within LSU's athletic leadership.
Despite recent rumors linking him to LSU, Wade had publicly expressed his commitment to NC State earlier in March, emphasizing his long-term vision for the Wolfpack program. However, the opportunity to return to LSU, a place he holds in high personal regard, ultimately proved too compelling to pass up. Matt McMahon, Wade's predecessor at LSU, posted a 60-70 record over three seasons, failing to secure a winning record in Southeastern Conference play during his tenure.
In essence, Will Wade's decision to leave NC State and return to LSU underscores the deeply personal and professional pull he feels towards the Louisiana institution. This move marks a significant development in collegiate basketball, as Wade aims to build on his previous successes with the Tigers while navigating the complexities of his return to a program with which he has a complicated history.
