Dick Vitale’s Message to Will Wade, McNeese After Upsetting Clemson
Just two seasons removed from being let go as the head coach of the LSU Tigers, Will Wade has done something with the McNeese Cowboys that no coach before him could.
On Thursday afternoon, No. 12 seed McNeese upset the No. 5 seed Clemson Tigers 69-67 in the first round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament. This marked the first tournament win in the history of McNeese men’s basketball.
McNeese was able to secure the win despite being 7.5-point underdog (ESPN BET ), relying heavily on backup guards Brandon Murray and Sincere Parker, who combined for 33 points. Starters Quadir Copeland and Christian Shumate also added 16 and 13 points, respectively.
After the game, legendary college basketball commentator Dick Vitale was left impressed with Wade and his team, taking to social media to give Wade and his team their flowers.
“Upset city baby by @McNeeseMBB as Will Wade had his team play with fantastic energy from the start,” Vitale wrote on X. “His team took command & led by 24 – @Clemson with a gutty comeback but McNeese will not be denied & will advance to face @BoilerBall.”
In a separate post, Vitale also credited Clemson for nearly coming back after being down by 20+ points.
“A terrific comeback came up short for @ClemsonMBB vs @McNeeseMBB as Tigers bounced from @MarchMadnessMBB 69-67 – but the energy & effort by Will Wade’s kids was the difference right from the start & they deserved the victory, Vitale added. “Will Wade will bring lots of spirit when he officially starts at @PackMensBball . However that must wait as this multi talented team has a date Sat . with Purdue for a chance to be in the SWEET SIXTEEN.”
Wade was hired by McNeese in 2022 following his departure from and has made the NCAA Tournament in both seasons with the Cowboys. He will get at least one more game with McNeese before departing for the ACC, facing No. 4 seed Purdue Boilermakers in the second round.
