Former NC State Standout Justin Gainey Named Wolfpack Head Coach

Tennessee associate head coach returns to alma mater to lead men's basketball program

Mar. 30, 2026 at 1:38pm

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Tennessee associate head coach Justin Gainey, a former North Carolina State standout, has been named the next head coach of the Wolfpack men's basketball program, sources told CBS on Monday. Gainey played at N.C. State from 1996 to 2000 before beginning a coaching career that has spanned multiple major conferences, including the ACC, Big East and Pac-12.

Why it matters

Gainey's return to his alma mater as head coach marks a homecoming for the North Carolina native, who has built an impressive coaching resume over the past two decades. His deep ties to the Wolfpack program and strong reputation as a recruiter and player developer make him an intriguing choice to lead the team's next chapter.

The details

During his five seasons on Rick Barnes' staff at Tennessee, the Volunteers reached the NCAA Tournament every year, making four Sweet 16 appearances and three Elite Eight runs. Tennessee also captured two Southeastern Conference titles — the 2022 SEC Tournament championship and the 2024 regular-season crown. Barnes has long held Gainey in high regard, praising his coaching abilities and recruiting prowess.

  • Gainey was named the next head coach of the Wolfpack men's basketball program on Monday, March 30, 2026.
  • Gainey played at N.C. State from 1996 to 2000.

The players

Justin Gainey

A former North Carolina State standout who has been named the next head coach of the Wolfpack men's basketball program. Gainey played at N.C. State from 1996 to 2000 before beginning a coaching career that has spanned multiple major conferences.

Rick Barnes

The head coach at Tennessee, where Gainey served as an associate head coach for the past five seasons. Barnes has long held Gainey in high regard, praising his coaching abilities and recruiting prowess.

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What they’re saying

“I hope he gets that job because I don't think there's anyone in the country that loves NC State more than Justin Gainey. He has incredible pride in his university. A terrific basketball coach.”

— Rick Barnes, Tennessee Head Coach

“Justin has an incredible feel for the game. He really understands players. He works at it, a terrific recruiter, understands the NIL era today.”

— Rick Barnes, Tennessee Head Coach

What’s next

Gainey will be formally introduced as the new head coach of the NC State men's basketball team in the coming days.

The takeaway

Gainey's return to his alma mater as head coach represents an opportunity for the Wolfpack to leverage his deep ties to the program, strong recruiting abilities, and proven track record of player development and success at the highest levels of college basketball.