A Renewed Rivalry Set for Tampa
Florida State University and Florida A&M University will open the 2026‑27 men's basketball season with a much‑anticipated showdown in Tampa, Florida. The game is slated to headline a doubleheader that also features a matchup between the University of Miami and another opponent, adding extra buzz to the weekend.
The pairing marks the first official meeting between the two schools since a 1991 exhibition that ended in a brawl, a moment that still resonates in the rivalry's lore. That night, a layup by then‑Florida State player Charlie Ward sparked a melee that led to the game being forfeited, a story that has been retold in campus archives.
The 1991 Brawl and Charlie Ward's Legacy
Charlie Ward, now the head coach of the Rattlers, guided Florida A&M to a 15‑16 overall record and an 11‑7 mark in the SWAC during his inaugural season, finishing tied for second in the conference. The team fell just three points short of the conference tournament title game, underscoring the narrow margins that define the program's recent trajectory.
Florida State, meanwhile, enters the new season with an unblemished 5‑0 record in the series against its cross‑town counterpart, the last full contest dating back to December 7, 1982, when the Seminoles edged a 81‑79 victory. The Seminoles' historical dominance adds a layer of intrigue to the upcoming contest.
Fans can expect a competitive atmosphere as the two programs renew a rivalry that has been shaped by memorable moments, coaching changes, and a shared history in the Sunshine State. The Tampa venue is expected to draw a sizable crowd, eager to witness whether the Rattlers can finally break the Seminoles' perfect streak.