Florida A&M is reportedly finalizing a deal to appoint former New York Knicks guard and Heisman Trophy winner Charlie Ward as the head coach of its men's basketball team. The 54-year-old Ward, who previously served as an assistant coach for USA Basketball, is a former two-sport star at Florida State University, where he won the Heisman Trophy in 1993.
During his time at FSU, Ward excelled in both football and basketball, leading the Seminoles to a national title in football and setting impressive passing records. Following his college career, Ward opted for a professional basketball career in the NBA, playing primarily for the New York Knicks.
Ward will succeed Patrick Crarey II as the head coach of Florida A&M, who recently departed to coach Grambling. The Rattlers are looking to improve upon their recent seasons, with the hope of achieving a winning record after a significant improvement in the 2024-25 season under Crarey's leadership.