**Breaking News: Mark Gottfried Returns as NC State Head Coach**
In a surprising turn of events, Mark Gottfried has confirmed his return to NC State as the new head coach, replacing Will Wade. This announcement comes just hours after the Wolfpack’s athletic department revealed they would be making a change in leadership for their basketball program.
Gottfried, who previously served as NC State’s head coach from 2011 to 2017, returns to a program that has been seeking stability after a turbulent period. Under Gottfried’s leadership in his first tenure, the Wolfpack made several NCAA Tournament appearances and experienced notable success, including a Sweet 16 berth in 2015. His ability to recruit top talent and develop competitive teams made him a popular figure during his first stint.
The departure of Will Wade comes amid mounting pressure surrounding the team’s performance and internal disagreements. Wade, who had been hired in 2023, faced challenges in connecting with players and producing consistent results on the court. While his time at NC State was short, his exit paved the way for Gottfried’s highly anticipated return.
In his statement, Gottfried expressed excitement about coming back to his alma mater. “It’s an honor to return to NC State and help rebuild this program to the championship level it deserves,” Gottfried said. “I’m looking forward to working with the talented players and staff here to bring success back to this great school.”
The decision to bring Gottfried back signals a commitment by the NC State administration to restore the program to prominence. Fans are hopeful that his previous success and familiarity with the school’s culture will help rejuvenate the Wolfpack and bring them back to national relevance.
More details will follow as Gottfried is officially introduced as the new head coach in the coming days.
