day by how hard I work and by encouraging my teammates. I try to provide energy, leadership, and consistency for the team and lead by example for the underclassmen on the team.”
“ I try to lead by example on the court and in the classroom,” he continued.“ Whether that’ s showing up early, staying late after practices to shoot, or just staying positive with them in tough situations.”
The Greyhounds will be on a shortlist of teams that can cut down nets in March. However, that road will be anything but easy as Sloan-Hendrix competes in the 2A-2, one of the toughest conferences in the state, and without a doubt the toughest region in the state. The last two seasons, the state runner-up has come out of Sloan’ s conference, and the two time defending champions, East Poinsett County, plays in their region. In fact, EPC has ended Sloan-Hendrix’ s season each of the last two years, with an overtime loss last season in the first round of the regional tournament, and a two point defeat in the opening round of the state tournament two seasons ago. So, to say the Greyhounds are close is an understatement.
“ The regional tournament game last year taught us that any play during the game can determine the outcome, whether it’ s in the first quarter or the fourth quarter,” Rorex recalled.“ We have to approach each play like it’ s the final play of the game. We also have to have a championship mentality in practice, the weight room, and during games in order to achieve our goals.”
Rorex feels this is the season the Greyhounds can get it done.“ I think what sets this team apart is our chemistry and bond we have developed in the offseason through workouts, team camps, and practices,” he shared.“ I also think that the mindset we have on this team sets us apart from any other team I’ ve played on. We are determined to show people this year that we can make a deep playoff run.”
Throughout the highs and lows of a season or even a career, the Sloan-Hendrix standout recognizes the lessons he has learned playing this game he loves so much.“ Basketball has taught me that nothing worth having comes easy,” he shared.“ You have to work hard when no one is watching and stay consistent, even when it gets tough, in order to be successful. The discipline that I have learned from playing basketball is something that I’ m going to carry with me for the rest of my life.”
Whatever the outcome at the end of this season, Hudson Rorex has left a lasting legacy for future Greyhounds to follow.“ I want to be remembered as the ultimate competitor; someone who gave everything on the court, never backed down, and always played with heart,” the senior guard explained.“ But just as importantly, I want people to remember that I tried to do things the right way- with integrity, respect, and a commitment to being the best teammate and person I could be.” Even before his career ends, I believe that the community of Imboden, Northeast Arkansas, and basketball fans across the entire state can say that Hudson Rorex accomplished just that.