THE MAN, THE MYTH, THE LEGEND
Overall, it was a great showing by the Florida State Seminoles in the 1993 NCAA Tournament. No, they didn’t win a championship but showed huge improvements as a program in contention. The momentum continued during Ward’s senior year. He averaged a career-high 10.5 points along with five assists and 2.8 steals.
Although Ward joined the team late after winning the Heisman Award, he eventually returned and played his best basketball. Unfortunately, the Seminoles were unable to recreate the same magic from the previous year. They finished the season with a 13-14 record and were not qualified for the NCAA Tournament.
Ward’s college career came to an end in 1994. When one looks back on his impact at Florida State, it’s hard to ignore him as one of the greatest to ever wear a jersey. Ward ranks top ten in Florida State History in total assists and still holds the record for most career steals with 238.
The momentum continued for Ward as he entered the 1994 NBA Draft and was selected by the New York Knicks at the 26th overall pick. He played 11 seasons in the league and helped the Knicks reach the NBA Finals in 1999.
From the football field to the basketball court, Charlie Ward became one of the prominent figures in Florida State History. He single-handedly brought rebalance to Tallahassee by helping build a winning culture as well as placing his name in history books.
Sunday was a celebration of Florida State Basketball in the past and present. While Ward’s jersey was finally hung in the rafters, fans were also optimistic about what their team will look like this upcoming season.