TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Mickey Clayton, a celebrated figure in Florida A&M University athletics who led both the men's and women's basketball teams to conference championships, passed away on Monday, Aug. 26, 2025. He was 71 years old.

Clayton was renowned for his trailblazing coaching career. He guided the Rattlerettes to the Trans America Athletic Conference regular-season and tournament titles in 1985–86 and later led the men's team to a Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference championship in 1999.

He was the only NCAA Division I coach to win championships in both men's and women's basketball at the same school, an achievement that solidified his legacy in HBCU sports.

Clayton got his start at FAMU in 1977, taking over the women's basketball program as a volunteer. Despite an initial 4–15 season, he transformed the team into a consistent winner, finishing his 13-year tenure with a 144–90 record and multiple 18-win seasons. His teams regularly packed Gaither Gymnasium, earning top statewide attendance in Division I women's basketball.

He later took charge of the men's team and achieved his most memorable triumph in 1999, when he coached FAMU to the MEAC tournament title and the program's first-ever NCAA tournament appearance.

Beyond the court, Clayton held key leadership roles within FAMU's athletics community. He served as head of the Rattler Boosters and worked in academic advisement, helping to raise funds that brought major facility upgrades to the university.

Clayton's funeral arrangements have been announced by Tillman Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, at New Mt. Zion AME Church. Viewing and visitation are scheduled for 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29, at Tillman-Tallahassee Chapel.

Mickey Clayton's contributions to FAMU transcended wins and losses. He built programs and inspired generations—leaving behind a legacy that will endure in the hearts of Rattler athletes and fans alike. Thank you for your dedication to excellence with caring, Coach Clayton.