Will Wade will serve a 5-game suspension to begin his tenure as McNeese State’s head coach, according to a report.

The American Press’ Jim Gazzolo was 1st to report that news. Wade was introduced as McNeese State’s next head coach at a press conference on Monday.

The move to suspend Wade is believed to be a proactive effort as Wade waits to learn whether or not he will be sanctioned for violations committed during his tenure at LSU.

In March of 2022, LSU fired Wade for cause after receiving a notice of allegations from the NCAA.

McNeese State chose to hire Wade even though he could be facing a longer suspension or other punishments in the near future.

Athletic director Heath Schroyer is looking to raise the expectations for McNeese State’s basketball program in the coming years. Here’s what he wrote in a statement after Wade was hired:

“This is a completely different job than it was three years ago,” athletic director Heath Schroyer said in a press release. “McNeese Basketball is one of the best jobs in the nation in regards to one-bid leagues. We are funded at the top of the league, have the best facility, a passionate fan base and many other built-in advantages. I will not make excuses for why we can’t win and win big. Quite frankly, there is no excuse.

“The days of us celebrating making conference tournaments or accepting mediocrity in all of our sports, let alone in basketball, are over.”

McNeese State went 11-23 this past season. The Cowboys have not made the NCAA Tournament since 2002.