Charlie Ward Ushers in New Era at Florida A&M with High-Profile Basketball Recruit
Tallahassee, Fla. – Florida A&M University (FAMU) is embracing a fresh chapter in its men’s basketball history with the hiring of Charlie Ward, the only Heisman Trophy winner to play in the NBA, as head coach. Ward’s arrival has already made waves with his first major recruiting coup — signing Devere Palmer Jr., a standout JUCO All-American from Monroe College. This move signals Ward’s ambition to elevate the Rattlers and restore FAMU’s competitive edge in HBCU athletics.
Ward, a multi-sport legend born on FAMU’s campus and deeply connected through family ties, carries the weight of history and the promise of transformation. His parents met while students at FAMU in the late 1950s, and his father was a prominent athlete on the university’s football team. Ward’s own collegiate career was marked by excellence as he led Florida State University to significant NCAA Tournament success before winning the 1993 Heisman Trophy. Following a distinguished basketball career that included 11 NBA seasons, Ward developed a respected coaching resume, including leading Florida High School in Tallahassee to its first state basketball title since 1963.
FAMU’s athletic director, Angela Suggs, expressed enthusiasm for Ward’s potential impact: “Charlie Ward is a true legend and exceptional leader. His championship mindset and wealth of experience will ignite inspiration and ambition in our student-athletes. His arrival is a game-changer for our program.” Ward himself has laid out a clear vision anchored in what he calls P.A.C.E.—Preparation, Accountability, Competitive spirit, and Effort—which sets the tone for the culture he intends to build.
The signing of Devere Palmer Jr. reflects this new direction. Palmer, a forward recognized nationally at the junior college level, brings a blend of skill and experience poised to bolster the Rattlers’ frontcourt immediately. His addition not only strengthens the roster but also sends a strong message to other recruits about FAMU’s revitalized status under Ward’s leadership.
Historically, Florida A&M has been a cornerstone of HBCU athletics, with storied rivalries and rich traditions that thrive beyond the basketball court. Ward’s tenure is already tapping into this legacy while pushing towards a competitive resurgence. The program aims to climb the ranks within the SWAC and reestablish itself as a destination for top-tier talent, both local and nationwide.
This strategic upswing comes amid a broader landscape where HBCU athletics are gaining increased attention. Parallel narratives in HBCU football, such as DeSean Jackson’s high-profile quarterback transfers at Delaware State, represent a growing trend of marquee names seeking to revamp and uplift their programs. The buzz around events like the HBCU Legacy Bowl, with over 100 employers scouting, highlights how these institutions are progressively becoming focal points for talent development and opportunity.
As the upcoming season approaches, FAMU fans can expect a new style of play infused with Ward’s competitive zeal and NBA-honed basketball IQ. The Rattlers face a freshman-loaded schedule in a challenging SWAC, meaning each game will be a test of how quickly the team adapts to Ward’s system and leadership. Early critics will watch closely, but insider voices emphasize Ward’s ability to inspire and develop players both on and off the court.
Looking ahead, this marked shift in Florida A&M’s men’s basketball program symbolizes more than just wins and losses. It embodies hope for continued growth of HBCU sports programs on the national stage, a reconnection with a proud athletic tradition, and the development of young athletes into champions who honor the cultural and historical significance of their institutions.
The coming months will be pivotal. If Ward’s recruitment strategy and coaching philosophy take hold, FAMU could set new standards for excellence that ripple across the conference and HBCU sports community at large.
Upcoming games will serve as the first true measuring stick for Ward’s impact. With renewed energy and talent on the roster, the Rattlers’ 2025 campaign promises to be one of the most closely watched stories in HBCU athletics.
By providing both local pride and national significance, Charlie Ward’s era at Florida A&M has begun — and the HBCU sports world is watching.