Former LSU men’s basketball coach Will Wade has officially taken the reins at NC State, and LSU women’s coach Kim Mulkey has nothing but praise for him. Despite overlapping for just one season at LSU before Wade’s dismissal, Mulkey remembers their time together positively, describing Wade as someone who treated her “with the utmost respect.”
Will Wade’s Journey from LSU to NC State Overlapped With Kim Mulkey’s
Will Wade’s tenure at LSU ended abruptly in 2022 when he was fired due to an NCAA investigation into recruiting violations. After a year away from coaching, Wade returned to the sidelines at McNeese State, where he led the program to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances. His success at McNeese caught the attention of NC State, which recently announced him as the new head coach of the Wolfpack.
Wade’s coaching ability was on full display during the 2025 NCAA Tournament when No. 12 seed McNeese pulled off a difficult 69-67 upset over No. 6 seed Clemson in the first round. Now, he aims to bring that same energy to NC State and reestablish the program as a serious contender in the ACC.
Kim Mulkey’s Thoughts on Wade’s Future at NC State
Mulkey, who led the LSU women’s basketball team to a national championship in 2023, was asked about Wade’s new role at NC State. She responded with confidence in his abilities, saying, “I would imagine he’s getting ready to wake the Wolfpack up and win at NC State.” Her comments reflect her belief in Wade’s coaching prowess and ability to turn programs around quickly.
Kim Mulkey and Will Wade overlapped for one year at LSU. I asked Mulkey about what NC State is getting in Wade.
“I would imagine he’s getting ready to wake the Wolfpack up and win at NC State.”
— Noah Fleischman (@fleischman_Noah) March 27, 2025
Mulkey and Wade only spent one season together at LSU before his departure, but their professional relationship left a lasting impression on her. Mulkey is known for her no-nonsense approach and high expectations, so her endorsement carries significant weight.
LSU’s Sweet 16 Clash with NC State
Interestingly, Mulkey’s LSU squad is set to face NC State in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. The No. 2-seeded Wolfpack will take on No. 3-seeded LSU on Friday at 6:30 p.m., with the winner advancing to the Elite Eight to face either No. 1 seed UCLA or No. 5 seed Ole Miss.
Though Wade won’t be coaching in that game, his presence at NC State adds another layer of intrigue to the matchup. Mulkey’s comments suggest that while she respects Wade, her focus remains on leading the Tigers to another deep tournament run.
Wade’s Potential Impact on NC State
Wade’s coaching style emphasizes recruiting talent and implementing high-energy, offensive-minded strategies. While his tenure at LSU ended in controversy, his ability to produce winning teams is undeniable. If he can replicate his past successes, NC State fans have reason to be excited about the future.
KEEP READING: Kim Mulkey Eyes Elite Eight — ‘We Don’t Play Just to Get to Sweet 16 at LSU’
As Wade embarks on this new journey, Mulkey’s remarks highlight the respect he earned during his time at LSU. With a fresh start at NC State, Wade has the opportunity to redefine his career and bring the Wolfpack back to national prominence.
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