Wade Leaves NC State for LSU, AD Seeks Long-Term Coach

0:00On March 26th, NC Statemen's basketball coach Will Wade is heading back to LSU on a seven-year deal after just one season with the Wolfpack. Athletic director Boo Corrigan addressed the sudden departure in a press conference Thursday, expressing disappointment for fans, the department, and the university, but stressing that the search for a replacement started right away. Corrigan revealed they learned of the resignation yesterday morning through an email from Wade's skipped a scheduled meeting without notice. They negotiated a $4 million buyout down from a possible $5 million before April 2nd to speed things up and move forward quickly. Fans and the program took a hit with the news, especially after a strong season with five sellouts at the Lenovo Center and an NCAA tournament. Appearance. Corrigan reassured supporters by highlighting the passionate fan base, the university's strengths, and past hiring successes while noting staff are, supporting players amid the transfer portal.

1:00For the next coach, Corrigan wants someone committed long-term, not a stepping stone, a top recruiter who gets name, image, and likeness deals, the transfer portal, and roster building for competitive teams. They won't use a search firm this time, drawing on last year's experience and industry contacts. NC State aims to land a leader who fits their tough, high expectations culture and pushes beyond this year's tournament run, keeping the momentum alive and rally.