Women’s point guard shares drive behind sport

By Cristhian Plasencia/Asst. Sports Director

 

In the modern game of basketball, perimeter shooters redefined the style of play, however it’s still essential for guards to facilitate and running the floor.

Guard Kristian Hudson catalyzes FIU’s offense. Currently, Hudson leads the Panthers in assist with 4.2 per game and is second in scoring with 13.3 points per game.

The junior guard also plays more minutes than any other player on the roster, averaging 37 minutes per game.

Hudson played four years at Clay-Chalkville High School in her hometown Birmingham, Ala. In 2015, the Alabama Sports Writers Association selected her as a First-Team All-State selection.

Hudson even earned the prestige of a First-Team All-Metro selection, and made the First-Team All-Conference.

Hudson’s brother, Carlos, played an important role in the point guard’s path to playing college basketball.

“My brother was and still is my biggest inspiration especially when it comes to basketball and in everything I do,” said Hudson.

From the inspiration of her brother, the point guard developed a passion for the sport.

“I always was a fan of the game growing up, watching college basketball and professional basketball, said Hudson.” Since high school, my work ethic has progressed, just understanding preparation behind things and my communication. Also my confidence that developed my potential strengths.”

In the first four games of the season, Hudson averaged 20.5 points per game, but the team struggled to put together a win.

Hudson showed star ability in her sophomore year, despite FIU only winning five games in the 2016-17 season. The FIU guard lead in scoring 12.1 points per game, but most impressively, lead the team with 119 defensive rebounds and 48 steals.

In her sophomore year, Hudson made history by being the first Panther to play 1,000 minutes for the year. She also set the school record of most minutes played in a single game. Hudson played all 55 minutes in triple overtime victory at home against UTEP.

Hudson sealed the win over UTEP with a triple buzzer-beater in a thrilling victory, 88-87, on January 12. She scored a career-high 35 points, completing the double-double with 10 assists.

As a freshman, Hudson led the team with 116 assists. Only ten players in Conference USA had 100 assists. She averaged 4 assists per game, seventh in Conference USA. At home against WKU, Hudson grabbed a season-high 10 assists and scored 12 points.

Next on the schedule for the women’s basketball team, the Panthers will travel to San Antonio, TX to do battle with UTSA Roadrunners. UTSA holds a (5-18) overall record and a (3-8) conference record. Tipoff from Convocation Center is set for 8 p.m.