Wade has done a masterful job in two seasons with McNeese, guiding the Cowboys to consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances and rebuilding his reputation following a messy exit from LSU. Thursday's opponent, Clemson, is also Wade's alma mater. If the Cowboys pull off an upset, his return to the big stage will only grow louder.

Well, it's actually quite simple. Despite multiple reports that Wade accepted the NC State job, the deal hasn't been made official. Meaning Wade is still the coach of the Cowboys — and likely will be until about an hour after his team's tournament run ends.

McNeese State coach Will Wade knows his name is in the mix during the college basketball coaching carousel. And unlike some coaches during this time of year, he's not being coy talking about it. Asked Wednesday if he or his agent had been in contact with N.