The Charlie Ward era of FAMU basketball is upon us. Ward has been hired on a 5 year deal following the departure of Coach Patrick Crarey II. Ward is no stranger to Tallahassee, making his mark as a prolific athlete in both football and basketball at Florida State. Ward brought the Seminoles their first Heisman Trophy and multiple NCAA tournament appearances before being drafted by the New York Knicks in the 1994 NBA draft. Though he did not attend Florida A&M, his connection to FAMU runs deep.
Ward’s father, Charlie Ward Sr., played for Florida A&M’s legendary coach Jake Gaither as a student-athlete.
“This is the only [collegiate] job that I was willing to take,” Ward said in his introductory press conference. “So many of you may know me as a Seminole, but I was born a Rattler,” he continued.
Before being hired as the new Rattlers head coach, Ward spent the last seven years coaching high school basketball locally at Florida High. Ward looks to return the love to the Tallasshee community he received during his youth and college career, and return the rattlers to their former glory. “This next chapter as a collegiate coach is not a stepping stone, rather, it solidifies our commitment to Tallahassee.” The board of trustees, players, and fellow FAMU coaches are excited to welcome Ward Jr. to FAMU and see the Rattlers back in action in November.
Charlie Ward Jr. addresses the crowd at his in introductory press conference, April 21st, 2025. Jalen Scott/WANM Sports
