SCM: How did you handle the criticism that came with your injury?
Hudgins: “It was a stressful period. I was in so much pain every single practice, but nobody thought it was a big deal. It was difficult hearing people say I was being ‘soft’ or that I was playing the worst while I was suffering every single game. I felt some pressure, especially being a woman in sports, to prove I wasn’t exaggerating or being weak; it was hard. It made me realize how much I value being seen as more than an athlete, like a human. Our coaching staff does a great job of making us feel seen and heard; they always prioritize mental health days when needed. Critiques and negativity are two different things. I have learned to differentiate whose feedback I value the most. I focus on what my coaches and teammates have to say, not the random negativity.”
SCM: The men’s team has had NBA draft buzz. How can we better support and recognize the women’s team’s hard work?
Hudgins: “In the fall, our program was frustrated at the lack of media coverage allotted to us. I love the boys so much, but it was hard seeing Athletics give them way more interview and marketing opportunities than us when we work equally as hard. Things are definitely looking up, especially with girls like Angel Reese [of Louisiana State University, the 2023 NCAA national champion] and Caitlin Clark [of University of Iowa] getting more global support, which helps women’s players all across the world. I strongly encourage SCU students and staff to do their best to support women’s teams, not just basketball, the way most do with men’s sports. I mean, we’re equally as fun to watch. We just don’t dunk!”