By Kyle Parmley
CLAY – Kristian Hudson will spend her next four years at Florida International University.
The standout point guard from Clay-Chalkville made her decision official on Thursday afternoon after a lengthy recruiting process.
“After having conversations with my coach and my family, I just felt that it was a better fit for me all around,” she said. “My parents were really excited about it, so FIU it is.”
Hudson shattered many records as a member of the Cougars, scoring over 2,000 points in her career. Although it would seem to be a given that those numbers would land her multiple scholarship offers, she is humbled that she has the ability to continue her playing career.
“It’s a blessing if anything,” she said. “Some people don’t have that opportunity. I was able to pick somewhere that I wanted to go and felt needed and wanted.”
Following a 3-26 season that saw the Panthers lose their final 18 games, Marlin Chinn was named head coach of the FIU program. Hudson wants to help establish a foundation and bring the program to the national spotlight.
“I want to leave my mark individually and collectively as a team,” Hudson said. “I want to improve and help them improve. I am starting at ground zero, coming in as a freshman. I have to prove myself to my teammates and coaches and gain their trust.”
Though she is moving on, Hudson grew up and learned a great deal in her years at Clay-Chalkville.
“People always say you can learn different things from different people,” she said. “I’ve learned many things from all of my coaches. It’s taking those things and not making the same mistakes twice.”
Moving to Miami will be an adjustment, but Hudson is ready for the challenge that awaits and will embrace it with enthusiasm.
“It’s going to be exciting. I can tell you that.”