FAMU mens basketball program faces controversy over new coach’s decision to dismiss entire team

Patrick Crarey, who is expected to take over FAMU’s men's basketball program on July 1, has already begun to stir controversy by dismissing the entire basketball team he inherited, sparking outrage among players, parents, and some alumni.  FAMU Trustees, will meet today (June 24) Monday, to consider approving Crarey's three-year contract.

Reverend Julius H. McAllister Jr., senior minister of Bethel AME Church in Tallahassee, and the father of dismissed player Colin McAllister, voiced his concerns in a detailed letter addressed to FAMU President Larry Robinson, dated June 23rd, and obtained by Rattler Nation. 

“ I am expressing my feelings in writing because I genuinely believe that the sixteen (16) student athletes were dismissed without an opportunity to show the new administration their gifts and graces,” Rev. McAllister wrote. “Moreover, the dismissal was administered unprofessionally and VOID of even a modest concern for the well-being of our students whom we famously claim to “care” for.”

Rev. McAllister's letter outlines the sequence of events leading up to the dismissals, raising questions about the decision-making process and adherence to the university's values.

According to the letter, the decision was announced abruptly on April 27, 2024, just nine days after Coach Crarey's appointment. The dismissals were communicated via telephone to the players during their final exams, causing significant distress and potential academic impact. Rev. McAllister highlighted that the players were given no opportunity to prove themselves to the new coach, contrary to assurances provided by embattled Athletic Director Tiffani-Dawn Sykes.

Rev. McAllister's letter details multiple attempts to engage with Coach Crarey, including a contentious meeting on June 3rd, where the coach reportedly displayed disrespectful behavior. Furthermore, the letter questions the legality and appropriateness of Coach Crarey’s actions, as he was not yet under formal contract with the university or an official university employee.

The controversy also touches on broader issues within FAMU's athletic department. Rev. McAllister recalled a previous incident where players were made to sit in the stands during home games, allegedly because having too many players on the bench was deemed a poor image (on TV) by the AD. This treatment, he argues, is inconsistent with FAMU's motto, "Excellence with Caring."

Rev. McAllister has called for a thorough review of Coach Crarey’s and AD Sykes' actions, suggesting that if their justifications are found lacking, they should be relieved of their positions. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the university's commitment to caring for its students, which he believes has been undermined by recent events.

The university administration has yet to respond publicly to the letter.  As the story unfolds, stakeholders will be watching to see how FAMU addresses the grievances raised and ensures the well-being of its student-athletes, and wether or not they reflect the institution's core values of "excellence with caring".