A Coaching Transition at LSU
Louisiana State University is reportedly preparing for a significant shake-up in its men's basketball program. According to reports from CBS Sports, the university intends to dismiss head coach Matt McMahon and move to re-hire former coach Will Wade.
The End of the McMahon Era
The decision to part ways with McMahon follows a disappointing four-season tenure in Baton Rouge. The Tigers struggled significantly this past season, finishing at the bottom of the SEC with a conference record of 3-15 and an overall mark of 15-17. During McMahon's time leading the program, the team accumulated a record of 60-70, managing only one season with a winning percentage above .500—a 17-16 finish in 2023-24.
McMahon's position had become increasingly precarious after LSU athletic director Verge Ausberry indicated that the program's direction would be under review if the team failed to secure an NCAA tournament berth.
Will Wade’s Return
Will Wade, who is set to return to LSU, spent the 2025-26 season leading NC State. The Wolfpack finished their campaign at 20-14, concluding the year with a loss to Texas in the First Four. Prior to his time at NC State, Wade served as the head coach at McNeese, where he led the Cowboys to consecutive NCAA tournament appearances.
Wade's return to LSU is facilitated in part by the leadership shift at the university, including the appointment of Dr. Wade Rousse as the new president in late 2025. Rousse and Wade previously worked together at McNeese during Wade’s tenure there.
Context of the Previous Departure
Wade originally departed LSU in March 2022 following an NCAA investigation stemming from an FBI probe into college basketball. The investigation famously captured Wade on a wiretap referencing a strong-ass offer
for a prospective recruit, a time when direct compensation for athletes was strictly prohibited by NCAA rules. In his final season leading the Tigers, the team entered the NCAA tournament as a No. 6 seed before being eliminated in the first round.
Coaching Backgrounds
Before his arrival at LSU, McMahon achieved considerable success during his seven-year tenure at Murray State. His final season with the Racers was particularly notable, as the team went 31-3, earning McMahon Ohio Valley Conference Coach of the Year honors and a No. 7 seed in the NCAA tournament.