LSU Tigers to Face McNeese State in Townsley Law Arena

New LSU coach Will Wade returns to his former stomping grounds next season.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 5:18pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Will Wade, the newly re-appointed head coach of the LSU Tigers men's basketball team, will bring his squad to Townsley Law Arena next fall to take on his former team, the McNeese State Cowboys. Wade, who left McNeese a year ago to accept the LSU job, promised he would do what he could to help keep the Cowboys' program moving forward, and bringing the Tigers to Lake Charles is one way he is making good on that pledge.

Why it matters

This matchup will be a homecoming of sorts for Wade, who built McNeese into a respectable program during his tenure. The game will also provide an opportunity for the Cowboys to test themselves against a major conference opponent and potentially boost their profile heading into the next season.

The details

Wade spent three seasons as the head coach of the McNeese State Cowboys before accepting the LSU job last year. During his time in Lake Charles, he led the team to a pair of postseason appearances and helped elevate the program's status in the Southland Conference. Now, he's bringing his new LSU squad to Townsley Law Arena to take on his former team.

  • The LSU Tigers will face the McNeese State Cowboys in Lake Charles, Louisiana on a date to be determined in the 2026-27 season.

The players

Will Wade

The current head coach of the LSU Tigers men's basketball team, who previously served as the head coach of the McNeese State Cowboys.

McNeese State Cowboys

The men's basketball team of McNeese State University, located in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

LSU Tigers

The men's basketball team of Louisiana State University, a major NCAA Division I program.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We are excited to get back to Lake Charles and play a great McNeese team.”

— Will Wade, Head Coach, LSU Tigers

What’s next

The specific date for the LSU-McNeese State matchup will be announced by the schools in the coming months as they finalize their 2026-27 schedules.

The takeaway

This game represents an opportunity for the McNeese State Cowboys to showcase their program against a high-profile opponent, while also serving as a homecoming of sorts for former head coach Will Wade as he brings his LSU Tigers to Lake Charles.