Full Breakdown
Will Wade Dismisses LSU Rumors, Focuses on NC State's Future
3/13/2026, 3:20:15 PM
Wade's Commitment to NC State
Following NC State's 81-74 loss to Virginia in the ACC tournament quarterfinals, head coach Will Wade emphasized his commitment to the Wolfpack, dismissing speculation about a potential return to LSU. Wade, who previously coached LSU from 2017 to 2022, stated, "Look, we're going to win and we're going to win big at NC State. That's what we're going to do moving forward." He highlighted the resources available to him and his staff, asserting that the responsibility for success lies with them.
Wade's tenure at LSU was marked by significant achievements, including three NCAA tournament appearances and a regular-season SEC title. However, he was dismissed amid allegations of recruiting violations linked to a federal corruption investigation. After a successful stint at McNeese State, where he led the team to two NCAA Tournament bids, Wade took over the NC State program in April 2025. In his first season, the Wolfpack finished with a 20-13 record and are projected to earn an NCAA Tournament berth.
Performance and Challenges
Despite the promising season, NC State struggled towards the end, losing six of their last seven games. Wade acknowledged the team's performance, stating, "This year hasn't gone exactly how we wanted it to... but we're going to rally and we're going to work hard." The Wolfpack's recent loss to Virginia was particularly disappointing, as they had previously suffered two significant defeats to the Cavaliers during the regular season.
The game against Virginia showcased both the potential and the shortcomings of the Wolfpack. NC State guard Quadir Copeland expressed the team's aspirations, saying, "We think we’re good enough to beat them... We want to beat teams like this." However, Wade noted the need for consistent effort, stating, "In order to beat these teams, we know we have to play hard for 40 minutes."
Official Statements & Responses
Wade has been clear about his intentions to remain at NC State, stating, "I was hired at NC State to do a job. This wasn't going to take one year." He has already discussed future plans with the administration, indicating a long-term vision for the program. Wade's contract with NC State is a six-year deal worth over $17 million, with a buyout clause that would cost him $5 million if he were to leave before April 1.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite Wade's assurances, some skepticism remains regarding his future at NC State, particularly given the rumors linking him to LSU. Wade addressed these rumors directly, labeling them as "total bull" and reaffirming his commitment to the Wolfpack. He emphasized that he is not engaged in social media or gossip, focusing instead on building a successful program at NC State.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I'm not into gossip. I'm not into any of that sort of stuff. Look, we're going to win and we're going to win big at NC State. That's what we're going to do. That's what we're going to do moving forward. We have the resources we need. We have what we need, and it's on me and my staff to get the job done. Look, this year hasn't gone exactly how we wanted it to, but we're going to rally and we're going to work hard and we're going to have a team next year that's ready to roll.” — Will Wade, Head Coach, NC State
- “Listen, let me be very clear: I'm excited at NC State. I was hired at NC State to do a job. This wasn't going to take one year. I've already met with our administration about next year and some of the changes that we need to make and some of the things that we need to do to put this program where it deserves long-term.” — Will Wade, Head Coach, NC State
- “ Said Wade: “The reality is we should have played more like this the first two games, and we didn't.” — Will Wade, Head Coach, NC State
- “We think we’re good enough to beat them,” — Quadir Copeland, NC State Guard
As the Wolfpack prepares for the NCAA Tournament, Wade's focus remains on improving the team's performance and achieving long-term success in Raleigh.