BATON ROUGE, La. – Will Wade is returning to Louisiana State University to resume his role as the head men’s basketball coach, a stunning reversal four years after his dismissal due to NCAA recruiting violations. The move, confirmed by LSU officials on Monday, marks a remarkable comeback for Wade, who has rebuilt his coaching career in the interim and signals a significant investment in the program’s future. This return to Baton Rouge is expected to energize a fan base that has grown apathetic during a period of losing basketball.
Wade’s initial tenure at LSU, from 2017 to 2022, was marked by success on the court, but ultimately overshadowed by controversy. He led the Tigers to an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2019 and consistently recruited highly-ranked players. However, allegations of improper payments to recruits led to his suspension and eventual firing in March 2022. The NCAA investigation centered around Wade’s alleged involvement in pay-for-play schemes.
A Second Chance Fueled by Political Support
Since his departure from LSU, Wade has successfully resurrected his coaching career. He secured two Southland Conference Championships at McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and this season led North Carolina State University to an NCAA Tournament appearance. ESPN reported that Wade’s return to LSU was facilitated by behind-the-scenes maneuvering from Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, LSU President Wade Rousse, and newly appointed LSU Board of Supervisors Chairman Lee Mallett. The university is also bringing back Heath Schroyer, Wade’s former athletic director at McNeese State, to serve as a Senior Deputy AD and Executive Director of External Relations for the LSU System.
The decision to rehire Wade is not without financial implications. LSU is expected to pay a buyout totaling approximately $11 million to Matt McMahon, the coach Wade is replacing, and his staff, according to multiple reports. The Advocate details the financial burden, adding that more than $10 million will be needed to assemble a competitive roster under Wade, and a seven-year deal has been agreed upon with a roster budget exceeding $12 million.
Resurrecting a Program in Decline
Wade inherits an LSU program that has struggled in the four seasons since his departure. Under McMahon, the Tigers failed to reach the NCAA Tournament and experienced a significant decline in fan engagement. “When they really want to find the money, they know the people that can get them the money, and they felt they needed it because of how far down the basketball program had gone,” said Glenn Guilbeau, editor of Tiger Rag, reflecting the sentiment that LSU was willing to invest heavily to restore the program’s former glory.
The timing of Wade’s return coincides with changes in the NCAA’s landscape regarding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and the transfer portal. Guilbeau noted that many at LSU believe the actions that led to Wade’s initial firing may now be permissible under current NCAA rules. This perception, coupled with the program’s struggles, likely contributed to the decision to bring him back.
Navigating a New Era of College Basketball
The college basketball landscape has been dramatically altered in recent years by the introduction of the transfer portal and the legalization of NIL deals. The portal, which opens for a 15-day window on April 7th, allows players to transfer schools with immediate eligibility. Wade is expected to aggressively utilize the portal to quickly rebuild the LSU roster. The ability to leverage NIL deals will also be crucial in attracting and retaining top talent.
Verge Ausberry, the current LSU Athletic Director who served as an assistant athletic director during Wade’s initial firing, reportedly supported Wade’s return, believing the initial penalties were excessive. This internal support, combined with the external pressure from Governor Landry and other key figures, created a favorable environment for Wade’s re-engagement.
The financial commitment to Wade’s return is substantial, but LSU officials clearly believe it is a necessary investment to restore the basketball program to prominence. The success of this venture will depend on Wade’s ability to navigate the complexities of the modern college basketball landscape and build a competitive team quickly.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about a developing situation in college athletics. Rules and regulations governing college basketball are subject to change. This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal or financial advice.
The next key date for the LSU basketball program is April 7th, when the transfer portal opens. Expect Wade to immediately begin evaluating potential additions to the roster as he embarks on the challenge of “Booting Up” the program once again. Share your thoughts on this developing story and what you expect from Coach Wade’s return in the comments below.
