NC State is turning to one of its own to lead its men’s basketball program after being jilted by Will Wade after just one season.
Tennessee associate head coach Justin Gainey, who played four seasons for NC State has been named the school's next basketball coach.
“I don’t think there’s anybody in the country that loves NC State more than Justin Gainey,” Tennessee coach Rick Barnes said as part of an endorsement of his assistant over the weekend.
He continued: "Justin has an incredible feel for the game, really understands players. He works at it. Terrific recruiter. Understands the NIL era today. If NC State knew what I knew, they would be begging him to be their next head coach because he's ready not just for NC State, he's ready to be the head coach of the University of Tennessee or any school in the country. He's that good.”
Athletics director Boo Corrigan and the NC State administration moved quickly to replace Wade, who signed a six-year contract with NC State last year and brought immediate fan enthusiasm, but bolted for LSU after the Wolfpack's NCAA Tournament First Four loss. NC State lost eight of its last 10 games.
Corrigan met with at least three candidates in person on Saturday: Saint Louis coach Josh Schertz, Gainey and Furman head coach Bob Richey.