The numbers
Matt McMahon’s tenure as head coach of LSU basketball has come to an abrupt end after four seasons, marked by a lackluster overall record of 60-70 and a dismal 17-55 in SEC play. The decision to part ways with McMahon follows a disappointing final season, where the team finished with a 15-17 overall record and a 3-15 record in the SEC.
McMahon’s firing opens the door for the return of Will Wade, who previously led LSU from 2017 to 2022. Wade’s coaching career at LSU included three NCAA Tournament appearances, but he was dismissed due to allegations of NCAA violations. His return comes after a single season at NC State, where he had intended to build a long-term program.
Wade confirmed his decision to resign from NC State and return to LSU via social media, stating, “The opportunity to return to Louisiana State University is deeply personal.” This statement reflects the emotional connection Wade has with the program, which he previously helped elevate to national prominence.
Wade’s buyout with NC State was initially set at $5 million, but it drops to $3 million after April 1, making his return to LSU financially feasible. The circumstances surrounding his departure from NC State suggest that Wade’s focus is now entirely on restoring LSU’s basketball program to its former glory.
During McMahon’s time at LSU, the team struggled to find consistency and success, culminating in a season that saw them finish at the bottom of the SEC standings. The lack of competitive performance ultimately led to his dismissal, as the university seeks to regain its status as a powerhouse in college basketball.
Observers are keenly watching how Wade’s return will impact the program, especially considering his previous success and the challenges he faced during his last tenure. Many fans and analysts are hopeful that Wade can quickly turn around the fortunes of LSU basketball.
As the dust settles on McMahon’s firing, the focus now shifts to Wade’s plans for the upcoming season. Will he be able to leverage his previous experience and connections to recruit top talent and reinvigorate the program? Details remain unconfirmed, but the anticipation surrounding Wade’s return is palpable among the LSU community.
