Florida A&M University ushered in a new era for its men’s basketball program Monday morning, officially introducing Charlie Ward as the 16th head coach of the Rattlers during a press conference at the Alfred Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center.
Ward, 54, brings a storied athletic background and a proven coaching pedigree to the Rattlers. The former Florida State University quarterback and 1993 Heisman Trophy winner, who later played 11 seasons in the NBA, was greeted by university officials, alumni, and local media as he outlined his vision for FAMU basketball.
“This is a tremendous honor,” Ward said from the podium, his voice resonating with both humility and determination. “Florida A&M has a proud tradition, and I’m excited to build on that foundation. My goal is to help these young men grow as players, students, and leaders in the community.”
Ward, who played football and basketball at nearby Florida State, is no stranger to the FAMU community. His father, Charlie Sr., was a quarterback on the Rattlers football team. Both his parents met at the school and he was born at a hospital that now serves as a campus administration building.
“You might know me as a Seminole, but I was born a Rattler,” he said. … “This (FAMU) is the only collegiate job I was willing to take.”
Angela Suggs, FAMU’s Director of Athletics, praised Ward’s unique blend of experience and character. “Coach Ward is a winner in every sense of the word,” Suggs said. “His success on the field, on the court, and as a coach speaks for itself. But what truly sets him apart is his commitment to developing student-athletes on and off the court.”
“This is a tough moment for me. I’m truly honored,” Charlie Ward said Monday during a press conference held by @famu_1887 university.
Welcome to the Hill Coach Ward. #FangsUp #FAMUly #OneFAMU #FAMUAlumni #FAMUrattlers #FAMU pic.twitter.com/lRQA3Zyuys
— FAMU NAA Florida Region (@flregionfamunaa) April 21, 2025
Ward’s five-year, $975,000 contract was approved by the university’s Board of Trustees, with a starting salary of $175,000 for the 2025-26 season and annual increases thereafter. Interim President Timothy L. Beard, Ph.D., highlighted the significance of Ward’s arrival: “Charlie Ward embodies the values we cherish at FAMU—excellence, integrity, and service. We are confident he will lead our program to new heights.”
Ward, who recently led Florida High to a state basketball championship, emphasized his deep ties to the Tallahassee community and his intent to leverage local recruiting networks. “I know the talent in this state, and I look forward to bringing in student-athletes who understand what it means to wear the Rattler uniform,” he said.
The Rattlers, who finished last season 14-17, are aiming for their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2007. Ward’s appointment marks a new chapter for the program, one that university leaders and fans hope will be defined by both athletic and academic achievement.
As the press conference concluded, Ward summed up his approach with a nod to his multi-sport roots: “Whether it’s football, basketball, or life, the key is preparation and perseverance. I’m ready to get to work.”
