Will Wade returns to LSU men's basketball

Former coach says there's 'unfinished business' with the Tigers program.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 8:22pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a college basketball game, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives.The return of coach Will Wade brings a new era of cubist energy and high expectations to LSU men's basketball.Baton Rouge Today

Will Wade, the former head coach of the LSU men's basketball team, has returned to the program after being fired four years ago. Wade expressed his belief that the team was 'just getting rolling' when he was let go, and he is now eager to pick up where he left off and finish what he started with the Tigers.

Why it matters

Wade's return to LSU is notable as he was previously fired from the position amid an FBI investigation into college basketball recruiting. His reinstatement signals that the university believes the issues surrounding his departure have been resolved, and that they are confident in his ability to lead the program moving forward.

The details

Will Wade was the head coach of the LSU men's basketball team from 2017 to 2022, leading the Tigers to two NCAA Tournament appearances. However, he was fired in 2022 amid an FBI investigation into college basketball recruiting. After four years away from the program, Wade has now been rehired as the head coach, expressing his belief that the team had 'unfinished business' when he was let go.

  • Will Wade was hired as the LSU men's basketball head coach in 2017.
  • Wade was fired from the position in 2022 amid an FBI investigation.
  • Wade has now been rehired as the LSU men's basketball head coach in 2026.

The players

Will Wade

The new head coach of the LSU men's basketball team, returning to the position after being fired four years ago.

LSU Tigers

The men's basketball team at Louisiana State University, which Wade will be coaching.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I thought we were just getting rolling,”

— Will Wade, Head Coach, LSU Men's Basketball

What’s next

Wade will need to rebuild the LSU men's basketball program and regain the trust of the university and its fans after his previous dismissal. The team's performance in the upcoming season will be closely watched.

The takeaway

Will Wade's return to LSU men's basketball represents a second chance for the coach, who believes the team had 'unfinished business' when he was previously let go. His reinstatement signals the university's confidence in his ability to lead the program, but he will need to prove himself on the court and regain the trust of the community.