Will Wade is officially back in power conference college basketball, and his return is turning heads. But the buzz isn’t just about his new job as head coach of NC State—it’s also about the controversial journey that brought him here. After his high-profile exit from LSU in 2022, many doubted whether Wade would get another shot at leading a major program.
Now, he’s back in action as NC State’s head coach, but his past scandals still follow him. Wherever he goes, people will ask about the time he was fired after being accused of multiple NCAA violations. However, while the fallout came in 2022, the controversy actually dates back to 2019. Let’s uncover every little-known detail from that period.
The Beginning of Will Wade’s LSU Scandal
The real trouble began in 2019, when reports surfaced that a federal wiretap had captured Will Wade discussing a “strong-a** offer” for a recruit, later identified as Javonte Smart. The conversation sparked controversy, raising suspicions that Wade was offering financial incentives to secure commitments—a violation of NCAA rules.
LSU head coach Will Wade was talking to fans today at a luncheon when the Yahoo Sports report broke regarding further phone calls with Chris Dawkins that the FBI is investigating. We spoke with him immediately after and here’s what he said. #LSU pic.twitter.com/b0vZ003wNi
— Michael Cauble (@Cauble) March 7, 2019
Following the revelation, LSU placed Wade on suspension during the SEC Tournament. In response, he released an official statement demanding reinstatement, calling the decision “inappropriate” and insisting he was being unfairly punished for exercising his constitutional rights by refusing to cooperate with the university’s internal investigation.
Despite Wade’s request, the administration refused to restore him to his position, citing the need for a meeting with university and NCAA officials before any further action could be taken. He was reinstated as head coach on April 14, 2019, after finally agreeing to meet with LSU and NCAA officials, where he denied any wrongdoing and answered their questions.
By somehow navigating all the legal hurdles, Will Wade returned to coaching, but the investigation into recruiting violations was still far from over. Those who believed his firing in 2022 was sudden were mistaken—his dismissal was the result of a long-running inquiry that had been in motion since 2019.
The NCAA had been gathering evidence for years, including wiretap recordings of Wade discussing improper benefits for recruits. By 2022, officials had gathered enough findings to issue a Notice of Allegations, citing five major violations connected to his tenure.
In response, the university released an official statement explaining its decision to part ways with the head coach. LSU President William F. Tate IV and Athletic Director Scott Woodward addressed the situation in a letter to fans.
“Today, we informed Will Wade that he has been terminated for cause, pursuant to the provisions of his amended employment agreement as the Men’s Basketball Head Coach at LSU,” Tate said. “Bill Armstrong has also been terminated as Associate Head Coach.”
KEEP READING: Was Will Wade ‘Blackballed’ After LSU? NC State Coach Opens Up About Time Away From Coaching
What does this suggest? The NCAA was not the only party investigating from behind the scenes. LSU also worked closely with NCAA investigators for over four years, ensuring a thorough and fair process before making its final decision. The allegations were serious enough that LSU terminated Wade’s contract immediately, just days before the NCAA Tournament.
Some coaches fade away after such serious controversy, but Wade has landed another high-profile coaching job at NC State. His return to a Power Five program proves that he wasn’t completely shut out.
During his time away, he kept in touch with the right people, and for that reason, his path back to top-level college basketball was a bit smoother than most expected.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
