Reports: McNeese coach Will Wade lands extension

Field Level Media|published: 02/06/2024, 11:11am EST

Dec 29, 2023; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; McNeese State Cowboys head coach Will Wade coaches during the first half against the Michigan Wolverines at Crisler Center. credits: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

McNeese is set to announce a new contract for men's basketball coach Will Wade on Tuesday.

The school scheduled a noon ET press conference concerning "the future" of the program.

Multiple reports said Wade, 41, will receive a five-year deal worth $700,000 per season.

McNeese is off to a 20-3 start (9-1 Southland Conference) in Wade's first season in Lake Charles, La.

The Cowboys finished 11-23 last season under John Aiken and last won 20-plus games in 2010-11.

McNeese's wins this season include nonconference road victories at VCU (Nov. 6) and Michigan (Dec. 29).

The reports said Wade's buyout figure to leave for another school will increase to $1.25 million after the current season and $1 million after next season.

Wade was suspended for the first 10 games of this season, part of the punishment meted out by the NCAA for three Level I violations during his tenure as the head coach at LSU (2017-22). His infractions included making impermissible payments to the former fiancée of a player.

—Field Level Media