Familiarity was a key that helped Hamilton Hudson become a part of the family when the University School of Jackson hired a new head basketball coach for the boys program.

Jody Evans, who serves as director of athletics at the University School of Jackson, said Hudson – an assistant at Dyer County High School – had all the credentials to land his first head coaching position.

“I was very familiar with him,” Evans said. “He coached a lot of our kids in AAU ball during the summer, and several former players called and sent text messages.

“He has high character and a high basketball IQ.”

A native of Gibson County and 2008 graduate of Gibson County High School, Hudson said he did not hesitate to apply when he learned USJ was in need of a new head coach.

“After I went to the interviews, they offered the job to me, and I could not pass it up,” Hudson said. “We have a team camp coming up at Union University in mid-June, but I would like to have more practice time to see what we can do, and build off that.”

Hudson said he has in mind what he would like to see from the Bruins offensively – and defensively.

“Whatever fits the team,” Hudson said. “Yes, offensively, we would like to play up tempo, and defensively, if we can press, we’ll press.”

Hudson replaces Oliver Simmons, who accepted a similar position at Haywood High School in April.

Hudson said the atmosphere was upbeat when he was introduced as USJ’s coach, Wednesday.

“The guys seemed very positive, very excited,” Hudson said. “You walk into the gym and you get excited … you walk into the locker room, and you realize it’s all yours. I know what I am walking into, and I’m ready to get going.”

Hudson, 28, graduated from Bethel University with a degree in physical education and a master’s in secondary education.

At USJ, he will also teach sixth grade social studies.

(PHOTO: Hamilton Hudson, USJ boys head basketball coach)
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