A natural fit.
Just one season after a magic run to the Final Four, Kevin Keatts is out at NC State. The Wolfpack couldn’t back up that success this season, posting just a 12-19 record.
A Tennessee staffer could be the next in line in Raleigh. Very quickly, Justin Gainey’s name has popped up in the search.
From two different sources: it won’t be Mike White or Ryan Odom.
The money/collective side has pushed hard for Will Wade. That is their choice and have made it known to Boo.
Boo has talked to Justin Gainey and that would be his choice.
— Joe Giglio (@giglio_OG) March 13, 2025
Gainey played point guard at NC State from 1999-2000. He returned as an administrative coordinator and director of operations following his playing career before becoming an assistant coach.
He joined the Tennessee staff ahead of the 2021-22 season after stops at Marquette and Arizona. His son Jordan would eventually follow him, transferring in from South Carolina Upstate.
“I was surprised like I think everybody was,” Gainey said in response to Keatts being fired. “Being a graduate and former player there, somebody who worked there, I have always kind of kept my eye on NC State. Just watching them play and everything. I love NC State. It is a great place.
“As far as me and my involvement on everything. I am focused on what we are doing here. Trying to win an SEC championship. Trying to win an NCAA Tournament. The fact that I am even mentioned, I am flattered.”
Should Gainey make the jump, the timing would certainly make sense with Jordan’s eligibility expiring at the end of this season. Tennessee will also lose Zakai Zeigler, Jahmai Mashack, Chaz Lanier, Darlinstone Dubar and Igor Milicic. If Rick Barnes wanted to retire, I’m not sure many would blame him. That day will eventually come, and we’ll quickly find out if Barnes wants to continue through this complicated NIL era.
Things with NC State and Gainey seem pretty serious though, so that’s something to keep an eye on over the next several days.