Will Wade’s Abrupt NC State Exit Sparks Backlash As He Returns to LSU + Jay Williams Defends Jon Scheyer Against “Choker” Criticism

Reese, Pam and Alex discuss Will Wade’s controversial departure from NC State, his remarks at the LSU press conference and debate over whether Jon Scheyer deserves the “choker” label and Jay Williams’ defense of him. Will Wade abruptly left his one‑year head coaching job at NC State to return to LSU—where he coached from 2017-22. Wade rejoined LSU after LSU fired Matt McMahon and negotiated a buyout with NC State to bring him back. Wade called the move a “chance to go home,” but his departure drew swift criticism from Wolfpack fans and media for abandoning a six‑year contract after just one season and how he informed the school. NC State Athletic Director Boo Corrigan publicly criticized Wade’s exit as a poor look and said he felt misled, while social media reactions ranged from outrage and disappointment to ridicule; some analysts also highlighted lingering concerns about Wade’s controversial past and the optics of the return. Will Wade addressed NC State during his introductory press conference with LSU. What did Will Wade say? Many college basketball fans have labeled Jon Scheyer, head coach of the Duke Blue Devils, a “choker” after a couple of high‑profile NCAA Tournament collapses — most recently blowing a large lead late in an Elite Eight loss to UConn. Critics argue that repeated near‑misses in March feed a narrative that his teams falter under pressure despite strong regular seasons and talent. In response to that chatter, former Duke star and ESPN analyst Jay Williams pushed back strongly on social media and video, calling the “choker” label laughable, noting Scheyer’s excellent overall record, multiple Elite Eight/Four runs, ACC titles, and the difficulty of winning a national championship — and said equating success solely with cutting down the nets ignores context and history in coaching careers. Jay Williams says Jon Scheyer is not a choker. Is he right?