In Providence, Rhode Island, McNeese University President Wade Rousse had a straightforward vision when he hired Will Wade as basketball coach: reach the NCAA Tournament in the first year and secure a win by the second. Rousse realized early on that retaining Wade might become a challenge if these goals were achieved, and he was correct in his assessment.
“I may never make another plan,” Rousse laughed, following McNeese’s impressive upset over Clemson, ranked as the No. 5 seed, with a close 69-67 victory. “This plan couldn’t have come together better.” Two years since Wade’s tenure began with this Southland Conference team in Lake Charles, Louisiana, his career is set for the next chapter at NC State. For Rousse, this move was an anticipated part of the gamble taken in supporting a coach whose promising career had been clouded by scandal.
“We’ve had a clear, mutual understanding all along,” Rousse remarked, speaking beneath the stands of the Amica Mutual Pavilion. “We needed Coach Wade to build towards this moment, recognizing this departure as an eventuality.” The Cowboys executed a formidable first-half strategy against Clemson, limiting them to just 13 points and establishing a substantial lead. Though Clemson attempted a comeback, McNeese secured the school’s first NCAA Tournament win.
As they advance, the NC State Wolfpack must bide their time until McNeese concludes its March Madness journey. However, Wade and his team remain focused on their upcoming challenge against Purdue, undistracted by the external developments. “We’re informed of everything going on,” said McNeese forward Christian Shumate. “Our sole focus right now is competing and winning.”
Will Wade, who previously guided LSU to two NCAA Tournaments, was dismissed in 2021 due to recruiting violations. After a hiatus, he joined McNeese, ready to rebuild his professional path. “From day one, they committed to our program,” Wade said. “Everyone doubted us initially, but look where we are today.” This resurgence has not only rekindled Wade’s prospects but also elevated McNeese’s profile. Rousse acknowledges the school’s efforts to find a successor while noting that Wade’s presence has triggered significant interest in this institution, halfway between New Orleans and Houston.
Applications are reportedly up by 10% for the coming fall, and student offer acceptances have risen consecutively for three years. Such interest peaked as the school’s website crashed following the buzzer-beater win. “I wasn’t just seeking any coach; I needed someone aligned with our broader goals,” Rousse explained. “Coach Wade seamlessly fit into that vision, revitalizing recruitment and academics through sports.”
Echoing these sentiments at a postgame briefing, Wade highlighted the broader impact their March Madness run could have, fostering enthusiasm across southwestern Louisiana. “This moment is monumental for our institution,” he stated. “The exposure is invaluable, generating an unofficial $25 million in publicity, which is transformative for our community.”
As McNeese nurtures this investment, Wade’s tenure already catalyzes lasting benefits for the five-parish area surrounding the school. The achievements on the court have made substantial waves beyond athletics. “This progress changes so much for our area,” Wade concluded. “It’s a development that keeps on giving.”