Congratulations to the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame Inductee Class of 2025
Congratulations to the 2025 inductees to the Florida A&M University (FAMU) Sports Hall of Fame. Your recognition and enshrinement add to an illustrious list of FAMU athletes, coaches, financial contributors, and supporters—all of whom have distinguished themselves as exemplary and been impactful to the rich legacy of FAMU athletics. We salute you: Q'Vaunda Curry, Amber Fullwood, Rachel Pye, E. Lilyan Spencer, Wayne Barber, Jomo Cousins, Karlos Odom, Philip Sylvester, Willie Booker, and Jorge Olaves. I would also like to express special appreciation to Roy Moore and Maurice Pickett – Financial Contributors; and Jacqueline Perkins, Michael Smith, and Van Wilson – Athletics Supporters. Thank you for your critical financial and athletic support during these challenging times. You have made a difference.
On behalf of my late husband and FAMU Hall of Famer, LTC Robert L. “The Trapper” Rollins, who was the longstanding Chair of the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame Committee since its inception, and an integral part of its visionary launching, I would also like to express appreciation and congratulations to Mr. Marvin E. Green Jr., President of the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame and his entire Board of Directors. You have done it again. Continuation of this evolving and monumental ceremony speaks to your collective resolve and dedication. You are doing a remarkable job. Bob would be elated and extremely proud of your endeavors and success.
It was a pleasure for me to witness and support the vital efforts of the historic FAMU Sports Hall of Fame Committee for many years. The opportunity to set up the initial ceremonial cake-cutting with ribbons and the milestone toast for inductees will always be a cherished memory for me. Again, best wishes to all 2025 inductees.
With Rattler Pride, Mrs. Robert L. Rollins & Family
Dear Rattlers,
It is with great pride that we celebrate the induction of the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025. This distinguished group of Rattlers represents some of the finest athletes, coaches, and supporters to have ever graced the highest of seven hills in Tallahassee.
Each year, as we undertake the difficult task of narrowing down the list of nominees, we are reminded of the rich legacy of excellence that has defined FAMU Athletics since 1887. It is both an honor and a history lesson to reflect on the remarkable achievements of those who have made a lasting impact on our university and beyond.
Earning a place in the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame is no small feat. Inductees must have demonstrated extraordinary contributions to the university, the state, and the nation. With these high standards in mind, we proudly enshrine the Class of 2025.
This year, we recognize two outstanding female athletes: Q’Vaunda Curry, Amber Fullwood, Rachel Pye and E. Lilyan Spencer (posthumously). Our male athlete inductees include Wayne Barber, Jomo Cousins, Karlos Odum, and Philip Sylvester each of whom left an indelible mark on FAMU Athletics.
We also honor two legendary coaches who shaped the success of our student-athletes. Posthumously, we recognize coach Willie Booker who led FAMU to its first-ever MEAC basketball championship. Coach Jorge Olaves is recognized for his stellar tenure as the FAMU Swimming and Diving Coach.
No sports program can thrive without dedicated supporters, and this class includes individuals who have gone above and beyond in their commitment to FAMU Athletics. Our financial supporters include Roy Moore and Dr. Maurice Pickett, Sr., who have gone above and beyond in their financial contributions. Jacqueline Perkins, Michael Smith and Van Wilson are being honored for their selfless support to FAMU Athletics over a substantial period of time.
Congratulations to the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025. Your achievements have earned you a place in the hallowed halls of Rattler history, and we are proud to celebrate your lasting legacy.
Marvin E. Green, Jr. Chair, FAMU Sports Hall of Fame Committee
The FAMU Sports Hall of Fame Committee would like to thank Florida A&M University Advancement and the Office of Alumni Affairs for their dedicated support of the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame. Because of your engagement, the 2025 FAMU Sports Hall of Fame Enshrinement was a great success.
– Marvin E. Green, Jr., Chairman FAMU Sports Hall of Fame Steering Committee
Standing at 6-foot-7, Barber cemented his legacy as one of the greatest big men in FAMU basketball history. He ranks No. 2 all-time in career rebounds with an astounding 1,033 boards, and sits sixth on the Rattlers’ alltime scoring list with 1,579 points. A dominant presence in the paint, he led the team in rebounding in 1974, and was known for his toughness, timing, and ability to control the middle—finishing as one of the program’s elite shot blockers.
Barber arrived at Florida A&M under the guidance of legendary head coach Edward “Rock” Oglesby, and completed his career playing for Hall of Fame coach A.Jac Triplett.
A Chicago native, Barber chose FAMU for its culture, spirit, and tradition.
Cousins excelled as a two-sport star at Florida A&M University, dominating both the gridiron and the track. A powerful force in the throwing events, he became a fourtime All-MEAC performer and a three-time MEAC Field MVP, holding both FAMU and MEAC records in the shot put while also standing out in the discus.
His impact was just as profound in football. A two-time All-MEAC selection (1996–97) and the 1998 MEAC Defensive Player of the Year, Cousins anchored the Rattler defense during one of the most successful stretches in program history. Under legendary head coach Billy Joe, he helped lead FAMU to three MEAC championships and three consecutive NCAA playoff appearances. He was drafted in the 1998 NFL Draft.
Curry was a consistent standout for the Rattlers, he ranked in the Top 20 nationally for three seasons in games played, field-goal attempts, three-point field goals, and three-point attempts. She also finished two seasons in the Top 20 in player efficiency rating and total rebound percentage.
By the end of her career, she held the FAMU record for the most three-pointers made and attempted (2008), cementing her place as one of the program’s elite perimeter shooters.
A respected leader on and off the court, she served as team captain for three consecutive seasons (2005–2008).
Fullwood enjoyed a remarkable career with the Lady Rattlers softball program under legendary head coach Veronica Wiggins. Earning a starting role as a freshman, she quickly became one of the team’s most dependable infielders, showcasing exceptional skill at third base.
A model of consistency and excellence, she was a four-year starter, a three-time First Team All-MEAC selection, and a four-time MEAC champion—a record achievement at FAMU. Her postseason résumé includes four NCAA Softball Regional appearances, underscoring her role in one of the program’s most successful eras.
Fullwood’s individual accolades were equally impressive as her team’s.
Moore has been a steadfast and gene rous supporter of FAMU Athletics, providing consistent contributions that have strengthened the department for years. Through his business, Piggly Wiggly, he has served as one of FAMU’s largest corporate partners—yet his commitment extends far beyond sponsorships.
Moore has repeatedly supplemented corporate gifts with personal financial contributions, underscoring his deep belief in the mission of Florida A&M University. His philanthropy has reached across the Rattler community, including direct gifts to the university, the Rattler Boosters, the Eddie Jackson 220 Quarterback Club, and the FAMU National Alumni Association.
One of Moore’s most impactful contributions helped establish FAMU’s Athletic Nutrition Station, a vital resource that provides food and nutritional support for all 14 athletic teams. This initiative has been credited with enhancing student-athlete health and improving performance.
Odum ranks among the toughest and most dependable defensive frontmen in FAMU history. His impact was immediate, earning 1993 MEAC Defensive Rookie of the Year honors after recording 54 tackles, 7 pass breakups, and 2 interceptions.
He continued to elevate his play each season: 1994: 37 tackles, 4 pass breakups, 1 interception 1995: Sheridan All-American, All-MEAC, and conference leader with 5 interceptions; finished the year with 69 tackles, 5 interceptions, and 8 pass breakups 1996: Preseason All-American, All-MEAC selection with 77 tackles, 7 pass breakups, and 3 interceptions. He cemented his legacy as one of FAMU’s greats.
Olaves served as FAMU’s Head Swimming Coach for many years and as Aquatics Director for more than three decades. He played a pivotal role in developing student-athletes and providing employment opportunities for countless young people. He is widely credited with saving FAMU’s swimming and diving program.
When the MEAC no longer sponsored swimming and diving as NCAA sports, Olaves identified and secured a new conference home for FAMU as an associate member, ensuring the program’s continuity and competitiveness. Under his leadership, FAMU captured multiple team championships and produced numerous individual champions.
Beyond collegiate competition, Olaves taught Red Cross swimming courses ..FAMU’s
Perkins was the first female assistant trainer and equipment manager in FAMU history, breaking new ground in a field where women were almost entirely absent. She became one of the earliest women anywhere in the country to hold such a position.
She served alongside legendary trainer and equipment manager George “Godfather” Thompson and received strong support from Hansel Tookes, Sr. and head coach Rudy Hubbard. While definitive records are limited regarding whether she was the first African-American woman to serve as a football trainer, it is widely believed—that she was among the very first.
Dr. Pickett has been a major contributor and unwavering supporter of FAMU Athletics for more than 20 years, raising over $100,000 during his long-standing commitment to the program. Most recently, he and his Rattlers in Arms group purchased an indoor putting green and championship rings for the FAMU Golf Team.
In 2023, Dr. Pickett played a crucial role in generating more than $45,000 for the athletic department during the Rattler Strike Tour. His generosity has been consistent across multiple sports, impacting a wide range of student-athletes.
Pye stands as one of the most decorated tennis athletes in FAMU history. Competing for the Lady Rattlers under head coach Nikki Houston, she distinguished herself with consistent excellence and leadership, ultimately earning recognition as one of the Top 50 players in MEAC history.
Her accomplishments include: Four-year starter All-MEAC First Team (2009,. 2010). All-MEAC Tournament First Team – DoublesTeam Leader FAMU Women’s Tennis MVP (2007, 2009, 2010) FAMU Letter Winner (2007–2010)
Pye’s career reflects exceptional talent, durability, and competitive spirit, placing her among the elite performers in both FAMU and MEAC women’s tennis history. In a storied program like FAMU, which is home to one f the greatest women’s tennis players of all time in Althea Gibson, Pye’s name is rightfully etched into the FAMU core of its greatest athletes.
A former co-captain of the Rattler football team, Smith made his mark as an electric punt and kick returner. After his playing days, he earned his MBA and began a distinguished career at FAMU in Auxiliary Services, where he oversaw the university’s interaction with FAMU Athletics.
Smith’s leadership has been defined by steadiness and reliability. It is remarkable that a young walk-on from Ohio—who had to fight for every opportunity—would later become one of the University’s most trusted and proven leaders. His commitment, competence, and character have benefited FAMU long after he hung up his cleats.
He has served as interim athletic director four times, and is currently in his fifth term, repeatedly stepping in to guide the department during its most challenging periods. His tenure also includes several impactful coaching hires, such as Jamey Shouppe (Baseball) and Garfield Ellenwood (Track & Field), both of whom went on to elevate their respective programs.
Sylvester was a standout track and football star from Marianna, FL, where his blazing speed earned him the nickname “The Marianna Jet.” In his very first game as a Rattler, he electrified the crowd with a long touchdown run in the MEAC–SWAC Challenge, instantly signaling the arrival of a special talent.
Competing under coaches Ruben Carter and Joe Taylor, Sylvester proved dominant despite not being the biggest player on the field. His speed, toughness, and playmaking ability made him one of the most dynamic athletes of his era.
His accomplishments include: Three-time Florida Classic MVP (2007, 2009, 2010) 2007 MEAC Rookie of the Year. All-MEAC selection and All-American honors
Wilson now becomes part of a unique legacy in the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame. His father, Roosevelt Wilson (Class of 1999), and his brother, Vaughn Wilson (Class of 2015), make history with him as the first father–son–son trio ever inducted.
Yet Van Wilson’s enshrinement is earned entirely on his own merit and decades of unwavering dedication. He is one of the longest-serving volunteers in the history of FAMU Athletics. Wilson began working under his father in the late 1970s, and keeping statistics for every sport.
He also demonstrated extraordinary commitment to track & field, volunteering at every FAMU Relays meet from 1977 through the final events hosted by Coach Darlene Moore around 2017.
IN MEMORIAM
Booker guided the Rattlers through a pivotal era, leading the program from its independent status in 1984 back to full membership in the MEAC. During his tenure, he coached numerous All-Americans and record-setting players who would later be inducted into the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame, including Douglas Cook, DeLon Turner, Terry Giles, Aldwin Ware, and Mervin Jones.
Under his leadership, the Rattlers advanced to the MEAC Tournament in four of the five seasons he coached. In 1991, Booker made history by steering FAMU to its first-ever MEAC Championship, cementing his place as one of the program’s most successful leaders.
He also produced two 20-win seasons, further solidifying his legacy as a coach who elevated FAMU basketball during a transformative period.
IN MEMORIAM
Spencer is regarded as FAMU’s greatest women’s tennis player, second only to the legendary Althea Gibson. Her dominance was unmatched—she captured the women’s state title for ten consecutive years without a single defeat.
In 1937, she added to her legacy by winning the ATA Women’s Doubles Championship, a landmark achievement in Black tennis history. Her accomplishments are so significant that they are highlighted in the International Tennis Hall of Fame exhibit, “Breaking the Barriers: The ATA and Black Tennis Pioneers.”
Her career stands as a testament to excellence, and resilience.
Barber honored with 2025 Hansel E. Tookes Sr. Trailblazer Award
When you think of dance and Florida A&M University, one name stands above the rest — Dr. Beverly Barber. For more than four decades, she gracefully cultivated the art of dance on FAMU’s campus. Though the university never had a formal dance department, Dr. Barber found creative ways to collaborate with the theatre program, weaving movement into stage productions and campus culture alike.
She became the face of the Orchesis Contemporary Dance Theatre, a dynamic performance troupe that fused traditional African dance with modern technique. Under her leadership, Orchesis became a cultural force — even touring interna-
tionally to Europe early in her tenure, sharing the spirit and creativity of FAMU with the world.
In the early 1960s, Marching “100” associate band director Dr. William P. Foster and Dr. Julian White’s colleague, Dr. Liles, approached Dr. Barber with an idea that would forever change the face of marching band performances. Her vision and choreography gave rise to a new art form — integrating dance as a vital visual and cultural component of the band’s showmanship.
History was made. Ebony Magazine immortalized the moment, capturing Barber in an iconic image that symbolized a revolution
in performance art — one that continues to inspire bands and dancers more than 65 years later.
The FAMU Sports Hall of Fame proudly celebrates Dr. Beverly Barber for her groundbreaking innovation and enduring excellence. Her influence has carried the “100” across the globe — from Paris to the GRAMMYs, from presidential inauguration parades to center court at the U.S. Open, and even to what many consider the greatest Super Bowl halftime show of all time with Prince.
Her legacy lives on in every step, every rhythm, and every performance that bears the unmistakable spirit of FAMU.
Hi Honey,
This honor comes as no surprise to me — you are so deeply deserving of it. What a beautiful thing it is to witness God’s favor resting on your life and to see you begin to reap the rewards of all that you’ve worked so hard to build.
You have always led this family with quiet strength, grace, and humility. Your light doesn’t need to shout as it shines steadily, guiding the five of us with wisdom, love, and unwavering faith. You are the covering that brings peace, direction, and hope into our home.
Thank you for continuously striving to be the man that God has called you to be. A man of excellence, integrity, and compassion. Your leadership reflects His heart. You don’t just lead with authority; you lead with genuine love.
You are truly an example of Excellence with Caring.
Dad,
I’ve always seen you as a rare gem. Truly one of a kind, so it comes as no surprise to me that you’re being inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Your hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication have shined through in countless ways. This honor is a reflection of all you’ve poured into your journey, and I know it’s only the beginning of even greater accomplishments ahead. I’m so proud of you and I love you! –Loreal
We love you deeply, Honey. For who you are, all you do, and the legacy of faith and love you’re building every single day.
–Loretta
Dad you have always set the standard and I must say you set the standard pretty high, in all ways with all things. For you to be inducted into the hall of fame at Florida A&M University is simply a testament of who you are at your core. A true and unwavering man of GOD. I have always been proud of you and proud to be your daughter. Thank you for paving the way for our family. Congratulations daddy, I love you. –Lauren
To be your son and to carry your name as a Jr. has been my life’s greatest guidepost. This Hall of Fame honors the Florida A&M University legend, the player they rightly called ‘Mr. Excitement’ for his electrifying play. But for me, that name has always meant so much more. It belongs to my hero, the man who taught me that true excitement is found in perseverance, integrity, and attacking every challenge headon. Following in your footsteps onto the football field was an honor, but following your example in life has been my privilege. Congratulations, Dad. You’ve always been a Hall of Famer to me.
–Michael
Michael Lee Smith is a man of many hats, husband, father, mandaddy, Accountant, AD, coach, business owner….etc. Those are some of the hats he’s wore for me and my family, I can’t imagine how many more he’s worn for this university and the community here in Tallahassee! The older I get the more important I understand it is for a man to leave behind a great legacy behind him, if not for yourself then definitely for the world and the community of people that you surround yourself with, in which you will have the most influence! When it comes down to being a father he was everything I could’ve wish to have and everything I hope to become. He was always there when I needed him and at the same time was able to help probably everyone in here as well. I don’t know what a the youngest of 6 growing up in a shotgun house in Cleveland Ohio had in mind for a life but I pray that he is proud of the groundwork that he’s laid at this for himself, his family, this school and in the city of Tallahasse. –Mallex
A History of Pure Greatness
Every athletic program or team can point to one or more performers who are head and shoulders above the rest, and who often go on to distinguish themselves on the larger stage.
Althea Gibson, the forerunner of Arthur Ashe, and later the Williams Sisters, was the first Black tennis player to breakthrough in the major tennis tournaments, capturing the Italian, Australian, French, U.S. Open and Wimbledon in the late 1950s.
The penultimate victories at Wimbledon in 1957 and 1958 erased any doubts as to the supreme talents she possessed, and Gibson left the tennis tour to embark on a successful stint on the Ladies’ Professional Golf tour. Her courageous performances in the face of racism has made her an inspirational and enduring symbol for Black athletes. In 2019, the USTA honored her legacy with a statue outside of Arthur Ashe Stadium in Flushing, New York.
Robert “Bullet Bob” Hayes, the scintillating speedster from Jacksonville, Florida reigns for decades as the first and only athlete to be a world champion in two sports - track and football. Hayes, who shattered world records in track, completed his meteoric ascent in the world of track and field with a double gold medal performance in the 1964 Tokyo Games -winning the 100 meter dash, and running anchor on the 4x100 relay. Those performances remain one of the greatest
in Olympic history. Hayes parlayed his sprinter’s speed and football skills into an All-Pro career as a receiver in the NFL, helping lead Dallas to a Super Bowl win in 1973, and in the process earning a place in Pro Football’s Hall of Fame in 2009.
William “Bill” Lucas, the first FAMU Baseball player drafted by a professional team (Milwaukee Braves in 1958), rose through the ranks of the Braves’ organization to become the first Black general manager of a Major League Baseball team.
Lucas, a sparkling middle infielder, whose pro playing career was cut short by a knee injury, embarked on a career path in management which led him to the front office when the franchise moved to Atlanta. In 1976, he was named general manager by owner Ted Turner, and despite his untimely death three years later, his moves to rebuild the franchise from top to bottom turned the Braves into consistent contenders by the early 1980s.
Jake Gaither, who would take the wheel in 1945, steered the program to one of the greatest runs in college football history. Gaither won 203 games in 25 years, producing 36 All-Americans, including NFL Hall of Famer Bob Hayes, College Hall of Fame running back Willie Galimore (1999), and threetime All-American center Curtis Miranda, while also winning six national titles and bringing home 23
conference championships.
Ohio State graduate Rudy Hubbard, the second OSU alum (Bill Bell was the first) to helm the Rattlers, steered FAMU back to the top, going 30-5 in his first five years with an undefeated season, two national titles and an upset of Miami.
Hubbard’s 12-year tenure produced the school’s first College Hall of Fame player, All-America Tyrone McGriff 1996), ushering FAMU into Division I football in 1978, by winning the inaugural NCAA Division I-AA national title.
Kenneth “Ken” Riley’s legacy is unlike any other’s at FAMU. He played football for Jake Gaither. As quarterback he was an All-Conference performer, leading the potent FAMU offense. He would be drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals and converted to cornerback. He would go on to play 15 years with the Bengals, retiring as the fourth-leading interceptor in NFL history. Riley became the second FAMUan enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame when his bust came to rest in Canton, OH in 2023.
Costa “Pop” Kittles is the latest installment to FAMU’s national hall of fame enshrinees. Kittles was selected as a member of the 2025 ABCA Baseball Hall of Fame. His accumulation of over 400 wins and metoring Andre Dawson, Hal McRae and Vince Coleman factored into his greatness as a coach. His longevity as well as stellar winning percentage marks him as elite.
Althea Gibson honored at U.S. Open
Marching “100” Thrills U.S. Open in Tribute to Althea Gibson
The 2025 U.S. Open in Flushing, N.Y., transformed into a celebration of history, culture, and legacy as the tournament honored one of the sport’s greatest pioneers — Althea Gibson, a proud HBCU alum who shattered tennis’ color barrier in 1950. Gibson went on to win championships in every Grand Slam tournament, and this year’s U.S. Open marked the 75th anniversary of her groundbreaking achievement with a full slate of tributes highlighting her alma mater, Florida A&M University (FAMU).
The United States Tennis Association (USTA) committed itself to
making the tribute a royal affair. Since 2020, the U.S. Open has incorporated HBCU Live — a showcase of historically Black colleges and universities — and Gibson’s milestone provided the perfect backdrop for a spotlight on FAMU.
On Friday, Aug. 22, the celebration began with the Beta Alpha Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. — Gibson’s own sorority — performing in a special event hosted by Rashan Ali, with DJ Radio Champ providing the soundtrack. FAMU’s Women’s Tennis team, led by Head Coach Rochelle “Nikki” Houston, was also featured, linking Gibson’s legacy to today’s student-athletes.
The spotlight shined brightest on
Aug. 27, when FAMU’s world-renowned Marching “100,” the reigning ESPN Band of the Year, electrified the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. More than 100,000 fans entering the complex that day were greeted with five high-energy mini-performances strategically timed to coincide with peak entry periods.
Later that evening, the Marching “100,” alongside the FAMU cheerleaders, stormed center court at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Under the direction of Dr. Shelby Chipman and led by head drum major Oluwamodupe Oloyede, the contingent of 30 musicians delivered a dazzling performance that brought fans to their feet. President Marva Johnson, rep-
Claudette Farmer honored on the 30th anniversary of her team making the 1995 NCAA Tounament
FAMU Sports Hall of Fame women’s basketball player Claudette Farmer was surprised at the 2025 Enshrinement Ceremony.
FAMU Sports Hall of Fame committee chairman Marvin Green, Jr. surprised her with a plaque commemorating the 30th anniversary of Farmer taking FAMU’s first-ever team to the NCAA Tournament.
The 1995 squad won the MEAC Tournament and with the
grace and support of then FAMU President Dr. Frederick S. Humphries, it would be the first time a Florida A&M University team would get an opportunity to go to “The Dance.”
Armed with FAMU Sports Hall of Fame stars Cathy Robinson and Natalie White, the Lady Rattlers made the improbable run through the MidEastern Athletic Conference Tournament, securing the confer-
ence’s automatic bid to the field. White would earn MEAC Player of the Year and lead the entire NCAA in steals. Robinson, who led the team in scoring, would later have her jersey retired which hangs atop the Lawson Center.
Farmer led FAMU to over 180 victories, a school-record 25 wins in 1995, three regular season MEAC titles, and two tournament titles in 1995 and 1999.
Congratulations Rachel, on your induction into the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame A Champion on and off the court!
From the first time you picked up a racket, we knew greatness was in your grip. Your dedication and passion have made history, and we couldn’t be more honored to call you family. We are beyond proud of you, Rachel.
We love you, Uncle Ant & Auntie Loretta Jeremiah 29:11
You may be Hall of Famer but you're a more legendary sister. I love you always and forever. Congratulations. -Larry Jr. Congratulations Mommy, you are the best and we love you. -Christynn and CJ.
I've always believed you had it in you. Congratulations, You earned it!Love Daddy
May God continue to bless you, I'm so proud of you Darling.
-Love Mommy
Proudly Congratulates
2025 Sports Hall of Fame Inductee
Thanks for your unwaivering vision, leadership, and Rattler love!
Husband - Father - Papa - Son - Brother
Dr. Pickett:
We love you! We thank God for you! We are proud of you!
YourAlways,Family
Dr. Maurice S. Pickett:
Thanks for being our FAMU Dad and showing us the true RATTLER way! We hope that we’ve made you proud! We love you! Job well done!
~Your “FAMU CREW” Daughters~
Coaching Achievements
Booker led the Rattlers for nine seasons, compiling an impressive record of 137 wins and 125 losses. His tenure is highlighted by guiding the team to their first-ever Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Tournament title.
Playing Career
Before his coaching career, Booker was recognized as a junior college AllAmerica cager at Gibbs Junior College in St. Petersburg, Florida. He continued his collegiate basketball journey at New Mexico State.
MEAC Tournament Success
During Booker’s leadership, FAMU reached the MEAC Tournament finals in 1988, 1989, 1991, and 1992. The Rattlers claimed their first-ever tournament championship in 1991 under his guidance.
We are deeply honored to celebrate the induction of our beloved Dr. Willie Booker into the FAMU sports Hall of Fame. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the remarkable achievements he accomplished. Our family is incredibly proud of all he achieved, and we take comfort in knowing that his contributions to the sport and the community will be remembered and cherished forever.
Celebrating Dr. Willie Booker – A Legacy of Leadership
Coach Booker’s unwavering dedication to mentorship, athletics, leadership, and community upliftment echoes far beyond FAMU. His vision, compassion, and commitment inspired a legacy of excellence that endures in every life he touched.
Congratulations Coach Willie Booker 2025 FAMU Sports Hall of Fame Inductee
On Behalf of Williams Moore Law Firm 1409 Thonotosassa Road Plant City, FL 33563
Congratulations Willie Booker FAMU Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025
“A true leader inspires not just success, but significance—guiding hearts, building futures, and strengthening the spirit of community. Thank you, Coach Booker, for lighting the path for us all.”
Patrick Gray State Farm® Insurance Agent 2743 Maguire Road Ocoee, FL 34761-4797
Congratulations Coach Booker
Warmest congratulations on your posthumous induction. Your memory will be cherished, and your contributions will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
When I first met you, your voice was soft spoken and you didn't say much. But, I notice that you were very observant. I knew you were different. As we began to work together. We became very close and I earned the title of Auntie! For that, everyday I Thank GOD for giving me a BONUS Niece. Never forget the I Love You and I'm EXTREMELY Proud of you. Remember this, Every day may not be Good.But, find something Good in Every day. Follow your dreams and ALWAYS believe in yourself. Never let anything or anyone DIM your light!I didn't give you the Gift of Life. Life gave me the Gift of You!
CONGRATULATIONS .... I Love You, Auntie Stephanie
Lloyd & Ella Cobbs
Jerome T. Jones
The National Rattler "F" Club would like to congratulate all of the members of the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025.
Ken “Rattler” Riley
One of “Jake’s Boys” Riley was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023. He spent 15 seasons with the Bengals.
Andre “Hawk” Dawson
The only Major League Baseball player to win the National League MVP while playing on a last place team.
