Lou Hudson Retired Jersey Number Ten
The smooth shooter whose number 10 hangs forever in the Hawks' rafters.
The retirement of number 10 by the Atlanta Hawks stands as a solemn tribute to Lou Hudson, one of the franchise's most prolific and beloved scorers. Known affectionately as 'The Smooth Shooter,' Hudson was a cornerstone of the team during its transition from St. Louis to Atlanta, embodying the skill and grace that defined an era of NBA basketball before his jersey was officially raised to the rafters at Philips Arena on November 23, 2014.
- Player Name
- Lou Hudson
- Jersey Number
- 10
- Primary Team
- Atlanta Hawks
- Hall of Fame Status
- Inducted 1985
- Retirement Year
- 2014
- Nickname
- The Smooth Shooter
Lore & Background
Beyond the statistics, Hudson was revered for his sportsmanship and connection with the Atlanta fanbase, making his eventual jersey retirement on November 23, 2014, a deeply emotional moment. Following Bob Pettit's #21 retirement in 1968, Hudson became another legend honored by having his number raised to celebrate an era defined by his presence. The number 10 now serves as a permanent reminder of a player who helped transform the Hawks from a midwestern team into a Southern powerhouse, securing his legacy alongside other legends like Bob Pettit.
In Their Own Story
The arena lights hummed with a low vibration as the crowd held its breath, waiting for the moment. A spotlight cut through the haze, illuminating the empty space in the rafters where number 10 would soon reside. Lou Hudson stood on the court, his eyes reflecting decades of jump shots and buzzer-beaters, watching as the jersey was slowly hoisted up to join the stars of Atlanta basketball history.
Reader's Guide
Lou Hudson's achievements with the Atlanta Hawks are anchored by his status as one of the greatest scorers in franchise history. He led the NBA in scoring for a season and was selected to six All-Star games, showcasing an elite ability to generate offense against top-tier defenses. His tenure included significant statistical milestones, most notably becoming the first player in NBA history to score 20 or more points in 15 consecutive games during his time with the team. He finished his career as one of the Hawks' all-time leading scorers and remains a benchmark for efficiency and volume in Atlanta. The retirement ceremony in 2013 formally recognized these contributions, cementing his place alongside Bob Pettit and Dominique Wilkins. The guide to his legacy is found not just in points per game, but in how he carried the franchise through a turbulent relocation period with poise and excellence.
Did You Know?
- Lou Hudson was a prolific scorer known for his consistency, though he did not hold a record for scoring 30+ points in 14 consecutive games.
- While Hudson was a prolific scorer, the franchise record for most points in a single game is held by Dominique Wilkins with 60 points.
- Hudson was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1985.
- His number 10 retirement on November 23, 2014, made him one of only a select few players to have their jersey retired by the Hawks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Lou Hudson and why is his number retired?
He was a cornerstone scorer for the franchise during its transition from St. Louis to Atlanta. His jersey number ten is retired in honor of his prolific career and beloved status among fans.
When was number 10 officially retired by the Hawks?
The team raised Hudson's banner at Philips Arena on November 23, 2014. This event marked a formal recognition of his contributions to the club's history.
What nickname did Lou Hudson have during his career?
He was affectionately known as The Smooth Shooter for his graceful playing style. This title reflected the skill and elegance he brought to NBA basketball in that era.
Was Lou Hudson inducted into the Hall of Fame?
Yes, he received induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame back in 1985. This honor preceded the retirement of his jersey number by nearly thirty years.
Why is Lou Hudson considered important to Hawks history?
He embodied the skill and grace that defined an era before his jersey was raised to the rafters. His legacy remains preserved as one of the franchise's most significant records.