NBA's unique achievement: Charlie Ward transitioning from Heisman winner to basketball player
In a fascinating intersection of sports, we delve into the captivating story of Charlie Ward, a man who defied convention and left an indelible mark on both the basketball and football fields. This article is part of a series exploring the unique connections between these two popular sports.
Born and raised in Thomasville, Georgia, Ward honed his athletic prowess at Thomas County Central High School before making his way to Florida State University. At FSU, Ward was not just an elite point guard for the basketball team, but also an all-time great collegiate quarterback in football.
Ward's football career was nothing short of spectacular. In 1993, he led Florida State to a national championship and won the Heisman Trophy, the most prestigious award in American college football. His statistics were impressive: he threw for 3,032 yards and 27 touchdowns, with just 4 interceptions. Despite this stellar performance, Ward was not selected in the 1994 NFL Draft, a decision that has been the subject of much debate.
Many believe that Ward, with his two-sport talents, could have potentially succeeded in the NFL. However, Ward chose to pursue a professional career in basketball instead. He was chosen by the New York Knicks with the 26th overall pick in the 1994 NBA Draft and went on to play nine seasons in the NBA.
Ward's basketball career was also noteworthy. As a member of Florida State's basketball team, he helped the team reach the Sweet 16 in 1992 and the Elite Eight in 1993. His coach at FSU, Pat Kennedy, spoke highly of Ward's leadership and skills on the court.
Interestingly, Ward is the only Heisman Trophy winner to play in the NBA. His unique journey serves as a testament to the versatility of athletes who excel in multiple sports. As we continue to explore stories about NBA players who could have stuck with football and NFL stars who played college hoops, Ward's story stands out as a shining example of the potential for greatness in the face of adversity.
