The North Carolina State Wolfpack had one of the most magical runs ever by an ACC team just last season. NC State entered the conference tournament as an 11-seed and somehow navigated their way to the championship game, ultimately winning it. The madness didn’t stop there, as the Wolfpack made it to the Final Four in the NCAA Tournament.
This season, the regular season unfolded similarly to last year, but a potential postseason run was thwarted due to the new ACC tournament rules. After the Wolfpack lost their final game to the conference’s worst team, Miami, AD Boo Corrigan decided to part ways with eight-year head coach Kevin Keatts.
This decision has prompted a head coach search at NC State, with two final candidates emerging in less than a week. One is a proven name, Will Wade, while the other, Tennessee’s Justin Gainey, has no head coaching experience but is regarded as one of the top assistants in the country. Gainey has been part of Rick Barnes’ staff for several years and is known for his recruiting prowess and defensive mind. If Gainey is hired, with some NIL support, he could easily assemble a competitive squad.There appears to be a divide on the direction to go in. The boosters and collectors at North Carolina State are pushing for Will Wade, while the school’s AD seems to prefer Gainey.
“The money/collective side has pushed hard for Will Wade,” Matt Giles wrote. “That is their choice and they have made it known to Boo.”
Giles didn’t stop there, adding what Corrigan wants.
“Boo has talked to Justin Gainey, and that would be his choice,” Giles added.
Wade is likely to have several offers on the table this spring, while for Gainey, the opportunity to lead his alma mater may be the only chance he gets this year.
