BASKETBALL IMPACT OF CHARLIE
Ward’s junior year was when everything came together. At this point, Florida State featured a talented roster that included Sam Cassell, Bob Sura, Doug Edwards, and several others. The Seminoles finished as the second-best team in the ACC and found themselves in the NCAA Tournament once again.
With Ward being one of the key pieces behind their success, Florida State was confident as the tournament began. They knew they had the better roster and could outmatch their opponents.
Ward set the tone for the NCAA Tournament by recording 15 points and 5 assists in a huge win over Evansville. He did a great job of showing his versatility as an outside scorer as well as attacking driving lanes.
Also, Ward’s playmaking was on full display by helping three Seminoles score in double figures. After a big win in the first round, the momentum continued as they made their way to the Elite Eight. After battling through an 81-78 win in overtime of the Sweet 16, Florida State was dismantled by Kentucky in a 106-81 defeat.