Lou Hudson
(1944-2014)
Hall of Fame Induction: 2022
Card Shown: 2008-09 UD
Premier Penmanship
Position: SG/SF
Height: 6’5″
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Lou Hudson was a terrific basketball player on the court and a trailblazer off the court. He played for the University of Minnesota in college and later for the St. Louis/Atlanta Hawks during his thirteen seasons in the NBA. Known for his pure jump shot, Lou was one of the top shooters and scorers of his time.
Off the court, Hudson, Archie Clark, and Don Yates became the first Black basketball players to receive scholarships from Minnesota. Lou faced racism during his playing career. His wife, Mardi Hudson, remembers times when restaurants would close to avoid serving him. In retirement, Hudson moved to Utah and served on the City Council in Park City. He has the distinction of being the first Black person to serve in an elected office in Utah.
Awards and Honors
- At Minnesota, Lou was an All-America selection and was named All Big Ten First Team. The Gophers later retired his number 14 jersey.
- Hudson was the fourth overall selection in the first round of the 1966 NBA Draft by the St. Louis Hawks.
- Lou was a six-time NBA All-Star. His six selections occurred consecutively from 1969-1974.
- After the 1966-67 season, Hudson was honored with an NBA All-Rookie First Team selection, joining Dave Bing, Jack Marin, Erwin Mueller, and Cazzie Russell.
- When the Hawks retired Hudson’s number 23 jersey he joined a prestigious list that includes Dikembe Mutombo‘s 55, Bob Pettit‘s 9, Pete Maravich‘s 44, and Dominique Wilkin‘s 21.
Points of Interest
- Hudson earned the nickname “Sweet Lou” due to his silky smooth jumpshot, which he made look effortless.
- On November 10, 1969, Lou set a franchise record for the Hawks by scoring 57 points against a Chicago Bulls team that featured Jerry Sloan, Bob Love, and Chet Walker.
- The University of Minnesota is proud to have Hudson (2022), Lindsay Whalen (2022), coach John Kundla (1995), and Kevin McHale (1999) as alumni who have been enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
- Lou finished his career as the 12th leading scorer in NBA history. He averaged 20.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game.
- Hudson’s presenters at his Hall of Fame induction were Spencer Haywood and Jamaal Wilkes.
Statistics
Player Name Statistics
provided by Basketball-Reference.com
Autographed Lou Hudson Cards
