Kevin Keatts’ time at NC State has officially come to an end, but the financial impact of his tenure will linger long after his departure. Less than a year removed from leading the Wolfpack on a miraculous Final Four run, Keatts was fired following a disappointing 12-19 season.
While his coaching era in Raleigh had its ups and downs, one thing remained steady – his growing contract value.
So, what was Keatts’ deal really worth? Let’s break down his net worth, salary trajectory, and the buyout that NC State is now on the hook for.
What Is Kevin Keatts’ Net Worth?
Over the years, Keatts built a respectable net worth, estimated between $1 million and $5 million. His earnings came from a combination of coaching salaries, performance incentives, and media appearances.
While he never held one of the highest-paid contracts in college basketball, he consistently secured well-structured deals that rewarded both longevity and success.
When Keatts first arrived in 2017, his initial contract was worth $2.2 million per year, a solid figure for a coach transitioning from UNC Wilmington to the ACC. However, as he posted NCAA Tournament appearances and ultimately led the Wolfpack to the Final Four in 2024, his salary steadily increased.
Kevin Keatts releases statement that he has been let go by NC State …
ONE YEAR after going to the Final Four. https://t.co/L1M159DFCQ
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) March 9, 2025
By the time of his firing in 2025, Keatts was earning $2.7 million per season under a contract extension that ran through 2029-30. The deal was automatically triggered by NC State’s deep postseason run, but the program’s sharp decline in the following year led to his dismissal.
Here’s a look at Keatts’ annual salary breakdown at NC State:
| Year | Annual Salary |
| 2017 | $500,000 |
| 2018 | $2,200,000 |
| 2019 | $2,700,000 |
| 2020 | $2,700,000 |
| 2021 | $2,700,000 |
| 2022 | $2,733,750 |
| 2023 | $2,782,181 |
With each passing year, Keatts’ pay structure reflected NC State’s commitment to keeping him long-term. However, the financial commitment ultimately backfired when the Wolfpack failed to build on their Final Four momentum.
How Much Will NC State Pay to Kevin Keatts?
Firing a coach isn’t just a personnel move; it’s a financial decision, and for NC State, it’s a costly one. Keatts’ contract extension guaranteed him a significant buyout worth nearly $8 million, meaning the school will be paying him even after his departure.
While buyouts are a common part of coaching contracts, this one stings considering the timing. Keatts’ extension was triggered by the historic 2024 Final Four run, yet less than a year later, the Wolfpack found themselves back at square one.
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At 52 years old, Keatts still has plenty of coaching years left in him. Whether he lands another head coaching job or takes an assistant role at a high-profile program, his track record – despite the abrupt end at NC State, makes him a strong candidate for future opportunities.
For now, Keatts has time to weigh his next move while collecting a hefty check from NC State. As the Wolfpack turn the page and begin their coaching search, one thing is certain- Keatts’ financial legacy at NC State is as much a part of his story as the Final Four run that once made him untouchable.
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