LSU formally announces hiring of Will Wade to return as Tigers head coach
By Rolando Rosa
Published:
LSU men’s basketball is reaching into its past for its next head coach. LSU announced on Thursday that Will Wade is returning to guide the program. Wade most recently spent one season as NC State’s head coach, going 20-14 and reaching the First Four of the NCAA Tournament.
Wade explained the emotional factors that led to him departing NC State and coming back to LSU, where he coached from 2017-2022. Wade led LSU to the NCAA Tournament three times, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2019.
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“This was not an easy decision, because of how much respect and appreciation I have for NC State, but the opportunity to return to Louisiana State University is deeply personal,” Wade said. “This is our chance to come home — to a place that has shaped me, where the passion for basketball runs deep, and where the expectations match the opportunity.”
Wade replaces Matt McMahon, who finished with a 60-70 record in his four seasons at the helm. LSU went 15-17 overall and 3-15 in the SEC this season. He was fired by LSU in 2022 after the NCAA served him a notice of allegations due to investigations on reports of recruiting violations. This time around, Wade is grateful to be back and motivated to lift the program to new heights.
“LSU represents something bigger — it’s about competing at the highest level in the best conference in the country, in front of one of the most passionate fan bases in college basketball,” Wade said. “The resources, the commitment, and the alignment at LSU makes it a place where we can build something special and sustainable.”
Wade took McNeese State to the NCAA Tournament in both seasons after being let go by LSU. Wade’s teams have reached the Big Dance six years in a row and he’s determined to transform LSU into a national power.
“I’m incredibly excited about the challenge ahead — about developing young men, competing for championships, and representing the state of Louisiana with pride,” Wade said. “There’s a standard at LSU, and I’m energized to embrace it fully. I can’t wait to get home and get to work.”
