LSU Basketball Coach Matt McMahon Faces Hot Seat Rumors

ESPN analyst suggests LSU could pursue former coach Will Wade's return

Feb. 25, 2026 at 3:38pm

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The LSU Basketball team has struggled with a 2-12 record in SEC play this season, leading to speculation that head coach Matt McMahon's job could be in jeopardy. ESPN's Jeff Borzello has suggested that LSU could potentially be interested in bringing back former coach Will Wade, who led the Tigers to three NCAA Tournament appearances and an SEC title before being fired in 2022 following an NCAA investigation. McMahon is in his fourth season at LSU and has yet to record a winning season in SEC play, raising questions about the program's future direction.

Why it matters

LSU is one of the premier basketball programs in the SEC, and the team's struggles under McMahon have been disappointing for the fanbase. A coaching change could have significant implications, both in terms of the financial commitment required to buy out McMahon's contract and the potential impact on recruiting and roster continuity. The possibility of a reunion with Wade, who had previous success at LSU, adds an intriguing wrinkle to the situation.

The details

LSU currently sits at the bottom of the SEC standings with a 2-12 conference record. The Tigers have four regular season games remaining, and barring a miraculous run, they are poised to miss the NCAA Tournament for the third time in four seasons under McMahon. The lone postseason appearance during his tenure came in Year 2 when LSU finished 9-9 in SEC play and was bounced in the first round of the NIT.

  • LSU has four regular season games remaining in the 2022-23 season.
  • LSU will play a must-win road game against Ole Miss on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.
  • Will Wade coached LSU from 2017-22, leading the Tigers to three NCAA Tournament appearances and an SEC title.

The players

Matt McMahon

The current head coach of the LSU Basketball team, who is in his fourth season with the program and has yet to record a winning season in SEC play.

Will Wade

The former head coach of the LSU Basketball team, who led the Tigers to three NCAA Tournament appearances and an SEC title before being fired in 2022 following an NCAA investigation. He is currently the head coach at NC State.

Verge Ausberry

The Athletics Director at LSU, who will be involved in any decision-making regarding the future of the basketball program.

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What they’re saying

“Wade has quickly turned around NC State in Year 1, as promised, with the Wolfpack trending toward wearing home jerseys in the first round of the NCAA tournament. But there is growing speculation that LSU would be potentially interested in a reunion, should the Tigers move on from Matt McMahon.”

— Jeff Borzello, ESPN Analyst

What’s next

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