By admin 
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — NC State has a new leader of the Pack for the second straight year.
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Justin Gainey is back at his alma mater, taking over as head coach for the first time in his career. As he begins his first season in Raleigh, Gainey is also working with an entirely new-look roster following the departure of a large senior class.
Just two players return from last season: Paul McNeil and Zymicah Wilkins.
The Pack hit the court for the first time this offseason, giving a glimpse of an intense practice led by Gainey, who has embraced the opportunity to return home and lead his alma mater.
“It’s been great. I am back home, and I have so much pride, respect, and honor for this position that I’m in,” Gainey said. “I understand the history, the tradition, and the legacy that come with being here at NC State.”
One of the biggest returning pieces for NC State is McNeil, who broke out last season under former head coach Will Wade.
Now, as Gainey begins his tenure, McNeil is expected to play a major role in the Pack’s offense.
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But his impact goes beyond what he brings on the court. As Gainey and McNeil begin this new chapter together, the relationship between the new head coach and one of his key players continues to grow.
“Paul has been amazing this offseason. Obviously, he’s a good player, but his leadership and his desire to lead have really stood out,” said Gainey. “The conversations that we have at night when he texts me or calls me … he’s been amazing. The relationship between he and I has continued to grow.”
For Gainey, success in his first season isn’t necessarily about wins and losses just yet. Instead, he’s focused on seeing his players improve every day.
That’s the mindset the new-look Wolfpack is taking into the offseason as NC State works toward the start of the 2026–27 season.
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