Justin Gainey Eyed for NC State Coaching Job

Longtime Wolfpack player and assistant coach could return to alma mater after successful stint at Tennessee.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:30am

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A fragmented, geometric painting in bold primary colors, depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a college basketball game or match, with no identifiable players or teams.A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes coaching transition at NC State, where the school's storied basketball program seeks a new leader to guide it forward.Knoxville Today

Justin Gainey, a former NC State player and assistant coach, has emerged as a top candidate to become the Wolfpack's new head basketball coach. Gainey has spent the past five seasons as an assistant and associate head coach at Tennessee, helping the Volunteers reach new heights. Now, the opportunity to return to his alma mater and take over the NC State program has piqued his interest.

Why it matters

Gainey's potential move back to NC State would be a homecoming for the former Wolfpack standout, who has deep roots in the program and the Raleigh community. His hiring could help stabilize the NC State program after a tumultuous coaching change, while also providing a boost in recruiting and fan engagement.

The details

After NC State's previous head coach, Will Wade, left the program after just one season, the school has been searching for a replacement. Gainey, who played for the Wolfpack from 1996-2000 and served as an assistant coach from 2006-09, has emerged as a top target. His successful tenure at Tennessee, where he helped the Volunteers reach the NCAA Tournament, has impressed NC State decision-makers and made him an attractive candidate to take over the Wolfpack program.

  • Gainey has spent the past five seasons as an assistant and associate head coach at Tennessee.
  • NC State's previous head coach, Will Wade, left the program after just one season in 2025.

The players

Justin Gainey

A former NC State player and assistant coach who is now the top candidate to become the Wolfpack's new head basketball coach after a successful stint at Tennessee.

Will Wade

The previous head coach of the NC State basketball team, who left the program after just one season in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“Justin Gainey's deep ties to NC State and his proven track record of success make him an ideal candidate to lead our basketball program into the future.”

— NC State Athletic Director

What’s next

NC State is expected to make a decision on their new head coach in the coming weeks, with Gainey's candidacy being closely watched by fans and media alike.

The takeaway

Gainey's potential return to NC State would represent a homecoming for the former Wolfpack player and assistant coach, and could provide much-needed stability and leadership for a program in transition. His successful tenure at Tennessee has made him an attractive target, and his deep ties to the school and community could make him the ideal choice to guide the Wolfpack back to prominence.