Will Wade to Justin Gainey: Why NC State Switched Directions for 2026

NC State is bringing one of its own back to Raleigh. In this episode of the Daily Download, Jaylin Jones sits down with WRAL’s Louis Fernandez Jr. to break down the expected hiring of Justin Gainey as the new head coach of Wolfpack Men’s Basketball. Gainey, a standout point guard for the Pack from 1996–2000, returns to his alma mater after serving as Rick Barnes’ right-hand man and "defensive coordinator" at Tennessee. 00:00 - Introduction 00:28 - Breaking News: Justin Gainey Expected as Head Coach 01:18 - Justin Gainey's NC State & North Carolina Roots 02:05 - Contrasting Justin Gainey and Will Wade 03:02 - Coaching Experience & Personality Differences 03:48 - Gainey's Assistant Coaching History 04:12 - Alignment with Boo Corrigan’s Vision 05:06 - NC State’s Interest in Gainey: A Worst-Kept Secret 05:35 - Coaching Pedigree and Defensive Coordinator Role 06:00 - Tennessee’s Defensive Success & Tournament Performances 06:33 - Gainey’s Impact & Recruiting Connections 07:48 - Defensive Issues and New Strategies 08:13 - North Carolina Recruiting Strategy 08:20 - Preparing for Transfer Portal Open & Staff Setup 09:40 - Three Tips for Justin Gainey 10:12 - Rick Barnes’ Endorsement & Recruiting Strengths 10:55 - NIL and Budget Outlook for Next Season 11:10 - Final Thoughts: Gainey vs. Wade 11:36 - Closing & Welcome to Raleigh Subscribe to WRAL: https://youtube.com/c/wral5 Download the WRAL App: https://www.wral.com/download-wral-apps/5787234/ News Tips: Online - https://www.wral.com/report-it/ Email - [email protected] Follow WRAL: Facebook: https://facebook.com/WRALTV X: https://twitter.com/WRAL IG: https://instagram.com/wral About WRAL-TV: WRAL is your Raleigh, North Carolina news source. Check out our videos for the latest news in Raleigh, local sports, Raleigh weather, and more at https://WRAL.com #localnews #northcarolina #acc