FSU Legend Joins FAMU Coaching Staff; Exciting Future Ahead!

Tallahassee, Florida, USA - In an exciting development for college basketball, Jarrod Lazarus has been appointed as the Associate Head Coach for Florida A&M University (FAMU) men’s basketball team. This marks a new chapter for Lazarus, who recently departed from his role as director of basketball operations at Florida State University (FSU) after a successful tenure, which included winning the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) championship in 2020 and a subsequent ACC championship appearance in 2021. With Lazarus’s extensive background, there’s much to look forward to for the Rattlers.

Luke Loucks has taken the helm of FSU’s program, refreshing the coaching staff entirely except for a graduate assistant now serving as assistant director of operations. Lazarus, who graduated from FSU in 2009, made notable contributions during his time with the Seminoles, which included developing several NBA talent and being part of five NCAA Tournament runs. His dedication to the sport and experience in fostering young athletes caught the attention of FAMU’s new head coach, Charlie Ward. Ward hailed Lazarus as the perfect addition to elevate the Rattlers‘ program, emphasizing the importance of having someone with Lazarus’s credentials in the coaching lineup reports SI.com.

A New Era for FAMU Basketball

Ward was named the head coach of the FAMU Rattlers on April 16, 2025, marking a substantial shift for the program as it seeks to regain its stature in college basketball, having not participated in the NCAA tournament since 2007. Ward’s remarkable background—including winning the Heisman Trophy and leading FSU to its first national title—makes him a pivotal figure in Tallahassee’s athletic history according to FLteams.

With a five-year contract reportedly starting at $175,000, Ward’s experience extends beyond just accolades; he has a history of success in mentorship and youth development, previously leading Florida High to a state championship in 2022. His ties to the Tallahassee community resonate deeply, creating a potential boost in recruitment and program visibility amid ongoing efforts to revitalize FAMU’s basketball legacy as outlined by the Tallahassee Democrat.

Lazarus echoed his own enthusiasm about joining FAMU, expressing appreciation for the opportunities provided by Coach Ward. His prior experience with notable NCAA talents, including NBA lottery picks like Patrick Williams and Scottie Barnes, positions him well to attract new prospects to FAMU. The upcoming season promises to be an exciting time for the Rattlers, as the new coaching staff aims to build a competitive program that resonates with fans and alumni alike.