The FAMU Rattlers men's basketball team is gearing up for an action-packed 2024-25 season, with a schedule that promises to test the team's mettle both in and out of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). Head Coach Patrick Crarey II has set the tone, emphasizing the season's difficulty and the opportunity it presents for growth.
"Our schedule is as tough as they come," Coach Crarey stated. "We're front-loaded with guarantee games in November and December to help the athletic department financially; these games will be a unique experience for our players to play against high major college basketball programs, and it will prepare us for SWAC conference play. The SWAC is loaded this year; we look forward to growing together all season and performing at our highest level in conference play."
The Rattlers' journey begins on November 4, 2024, with a road test against TCU in Texas, followed by another challenging away game versus SMU on November 7. The early road campaign continues with a marquee matchup against Maryland on November 11, before heading to Gainesville to face the University of Florida on November 19.
The Al Lawson Center will roar to life on November 22, as the Rattlers host Trinity Baptist for their home opener. The home schedule is packed with key contests, setting the stage for an exciting season within the friendly confines of their home court.
Non-conference highlights include a January 4, 2025, showdown against Bethune-Cookman in Tallahassee, with the season finale against the Wildcats set for March 8 in Daytona Beach. The Rattlers will also engage in home-and-home series with Southern, Grambling, Alabama A&M, Alabama State, Alcorn State, and Jackson State, ensuring a competitive SWAC slate.
The Rattlers will host Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Mississippi Valley State, while venturing to Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern for away games. This balanced mix of high-major and conference opponents promises to make the 2024-25 season one to remember for Florida A&M basketball fans.