Report: NC State holds meeting with McNeese head coach Will Wade

NC State is looking for its next head coach after the firing of Kevin Keatts. They’re looking towards McNeese leader Will Wade as an option, according to Jeff Goodman of The Field Of 68.

Per Goodman, the Wolfpack’s administration met with Wade yesterday. He’d certainly be a fascinating choice. Prior to his time with the Cowboys, he was the in-charge of the LSU Tigers for five seasons, and the VCU Rams for two before that.

From a strictly basketball perspective, Wade would be a phenomenal replacement for Keatts. However, he comes with his fair share of baggage, as he was suspended and dealt with a myriad of issues with the NCAA over the last decade.

All in all, Wade has been tremendous since taking over McNeese State in 2023. He’s amassed a 49–8 record, while winning both the conference regular season and conference tournament championships in both his seasons with the program. This comes after he went 105–51 over five seasons at LSU, including a trip to the Sweet 16 in 2019.

As for NC State, it’s been a rollercoaster of a past 365 days. Keatts led the Wolfpack to the Final Four in a shocking run last season, but couldn’t bring that success beyond that. This season, the team finished the season 12-19 overall, and 5-15 in ACC play. They ended their crusade losing three of their last four games.

Keatts finished his time in Raleigh with a record of 151-113, including a 69-84 record against conference opponents. He made three NCAA Tournaments during his time as head coach. Keatts released a statement following the Wolfpack’s announcement. 

“The last eight years have been a dream come true, and I will always cherish my time being a part of the Raleigh community. I want to thank Debbie Yow for giving me this tremendous opportunity to lead the Wolfpack back to the top of the ACC,” the statement reads. “Her leadership and vision brought so many great coaches to NC State. 

“I am extremely proud of what we accomplished during my time here. … As we enter this new era of college sports, I wholeheartedly believe that I am leaving the program in a better position to succeed than when I started – and that the basketball program will continue to thrive when supported to the level necessary to compete. Finally, thank you to all the players, assistant coaches, managers, staff and supporters that joined my family and I on this journey.”

Keatts finished it off with a tongue in cheek comment. “I am officially entering the portal.” The Wolfpack will begin its search for a new head coach immediately.”

Whether it’s Will Wade remains to be seen, but NC State is hoping to get back to making Final Four runs, like they did last season. Kevin Keatts will likely land on his feet, but the future of the Wolfpack as a whole will be something to keep an eye on.

— On3’s Barkley Truax contributed to this article.