Tallahassee, FL — Florida A&M is gearing up for a game-changing move that has the entire Rattler Nation buzzing: legendary Florida State quarterback and former NBA point guard Charlie Ward is close to finalizing a deal to become the next head coach of FAMU men’s basketball.
While the deal isn’t officially sealed yet, the university’s Board of Trustees is expected to vote on it during an upcoming meeting, with an agenda item specifically listed for the approval of a new head basketball coach. If approved, Ward would bring not just coaching chops—but star power and instant credibility—to a program hungry for a comeback.
Ward, 54, is no stranger to Tallahassee greatness. In 1993, he pulled off one of the most iconic double plays in sports history—winning the Heisman Trophy and leading FSU football to a national championship, while also pushing the basketball team to the Elite Eight. He went on to play 11 seasons in the NBA, mostly with the New York Knicks, before short stints with the Spurs and Rockets.
And he’s no stranger to coaching, either. Ward’s been on the sidelines as an assistant in the NBA, with USA Basketball, and most recently spent seven years leading Florida High’s boys basketball program—guiding them to a state title in 2022.
The proposed deal includes a five-year contract starting at $175,000 per year with annual raises. If it goes through, Ward would instantly become one of the highest-profile coaches at any HBCU—and one of the few former pro athletes now leading a Division I program, joining the likes of Mo Williams at Jackson State.
Ward would take over a Rattlers program that’s been through a tough stretch, with no NCAA tournament appearance since 2007 and a string of short-lived coaching tenures. FAMU finished last season 14-17 under Patrick Crarey, who stepped down after just one year.
But with Ward on the sideline? There’s a new energy in the air. His return to the spotlight in his hometown could give the Rattlers exactly what they need: leadership, respect, and a winning mindset.
Stay tuned—this could be the start of something special in Tallahassee.
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