Will Wade Returns to VCU with NC State After Coaching Changes

RALEIGH, North Carolina — Veteran coach Will Wade has been named the head coach of NC State, signing a six-year contract after previously leading teams including Chattanooga, VCU, LSU, and McNeese State. Wade succeeds Kevin Keatts as the Wolfpack’s head coach.

Three games into the 2025-26 season, the Wolfpack boasts victories over NC Central, UAB, and UNC Greensboro, positioning them well as they prepare to face Wade’s former team, VCU, on Monday.

In a recent interview, Wade reflected on his time with VCU, where he led the Rams to impressive NCAA Tournament appearances in 2016 and 2017. He succeeded Shaka Smart after a successful run at Chattanooga, earning 20 wins in his first season.

“I didn’t fully appreciate VCU when I was there as a head coach,” Wade said. “Looking back, I should’ve stayed awhile longer. We had something really good going.”

Wade regrets leaving VCU for LSU in 2017, where he coached for five seasons until 2022. He acknowledged that his desire for advancement clouded his appreciation of his successful tenure at Richmond.

“At the time, I didn’t realize it. VCU has incredible fans and support,” he added. “It’s why a dumba** like me can win there.”

On Monday, Wade will lead NC State against VCU, whose athletic director, Ed McLaughlin, supported Wade’s move to Raleigh. Wade is hopeful the fans will recognize his contributions to the program rather than express discontent, reminiscent of his time at LSU.

He views this game as a significant challenge, comparing VCU to top-tier opponents in high-major tournaments. The game is set for 7 p.m. ET at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, with coverage on the ACC Network featuring announcers Jay Alter and Randolph Childress.