There’s a good chance that the Tennessee Vols could be impacted by the fallout from Will Wade’s decision to leave NC State to return to the LSU Tigers.

Wade left NC State this week after one season to take over as LSU’s head coach (he was fired by LSU for NCAA violations in 2022).

One of NC State’s top targets to replace Wade is reportedly Vols assistant coach Justin Gainey, a former Wolfpack point guard.

Gainey has served as an assistant coach at Tennessee since 2021.

Rick Barnes comments on NC State’s interest in Justin Gainey

Vols head coach Barnes was asked on Saturday, ahead of Tennessee’s Sunday matchup with Michigan in the Elite Eight, about NC State’s reported interest in Gainey.

Unsurprisingly, Barnes was very supportive of his assistant coach.

“I hope he gets the job,” said Barnes. “I don’t think there’s anybody in the country that loves NC State more than Justin Gainey. He’s a North Carolina native. He went to NC State, played four years there, started four years. Helped win an ACC tournament. He has just incredible pride in his university. A terrific basketball coach.

“Justin has an incredible feel for the game — really understands players. He works at it. Terrific recruiter. Understands the NIL era today. If NC State knew what I knew, they would be begging him to be their next head coach — because he’s ready not just for NC State, he’s ready to be the head coach of the University of Tennessee or any school in the country. He’s that good. I’ve been with him through a lot of these games, and he recruited Nate (Ament), he was the lead recruiter on him. And just phenomenal job.”

“One of the finest people I’ve ever been around and a beautiful family,” added Barnes.

There’s no doubt that Gainey is a big asset for Tennessee basketball. But ultimately, Barnes wants what is best for Gainey and his family (that’s just who Barnes is as a person). And getting a chance to be the head coach at NC State would certainly be an incredible opportunity for Gainey.

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