Will Wade Signs Record Deal With McNeese

It looks like “Willy The Kid” could be staying in Lake Charles for a little bit longer, and it will come with some big money and a few interesting stipulations…

Will Wade and the Bayou Bandits have been one of the best teams in the country as they have posted a 20-3 overall record and a 9-1 record in Southland Conference Play. The Cowboys have won 15 of their last 16 games dating back to Thanksgiving, with their lone loss coming at the hands of the Southeastern Lions on Saturday Night.

The main question that has surrounded Will Wade and the McNeese Basketball program has been “How long will he stay in Lake Charles?” According to College Basketball Insider Jon Rothstein, it appears Wade has signed a new deal to remain in Lake Charles.

This news comes nearly 12 hours after McNeese secured its’ 20th win of the season when they defeated Texas A&M Commerce on Monday 77-51. Shahada Wells led all scorers with 16 points, while Utah transfer Mike Saunders threw in another 14 points for the Cowboys on Monday Night when they secured their 9th win in Southland Conference play.

In 2023, Wade signed a five-year, $1.175 million deal to be the 12th head men’s basketball coach in school history. Now it appears he has agreed to an extension.

Per Rothstein, Wade has received a new 5-year contract worth $700,000 annually. Wade's buyout following this season will be $1.25 million and $1 million after the 2024-25 season. Wade will also have incentives in the deal as well, details on those will come later.

McNeese Sports Insider Jim Gazollo has the full scoop on contract details and incentives, CLICK HERE to read that piece.

The new contract is expected to be made official Tuesday Afternoon with a Press Conference inside the Legacy Center.