Lou Hudson, known by the nickname "Sweet Lou," was a professional basketball player whose career spanned over a decade in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born on July 11, 1944, in Greensboro, North Carolina, Hudson developed his basketball skills at Dudley High School before attending the University of Minnesota. At Minnesota, he became a standout player, earning All-American honors and catching the attention of NBA scouts.

In 1966, the St. Louis Hawks selected Hudson with the fourth overall pick in the NBA Draft. He quickly adapted to the professional level, showcasing his scoring ability and smooth shooting touch. Hudson's rookie season was impressive, as he averaged 18.4 points per game, earning him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Team. His performance helped solidify his role as a key player for the Hawks.

Hudson's career with the Hawks, who later became the Atlanta Hawks, was marked by consistent scoring and leadership on the court. He was known for his smooth jump shot and ability to score from various positions on the floor. Over the years, Hudson became one of the league's top scorers, averaging over 20 points per game for ten consecutive seasons. His scoring prowess earned him six NBA All-Star selections, highlighting his status as one of the elite players of his era.

One of Hudson's most memorable seasons came in 1972-73 when he averaged a career-high 27.1 points per game. His scoring ability was complemented by his defensive skills, making him a well-rounded player. Hudson's contributions were instrumental in leading the Hawks to multiple playoff appearances during his tenure with the team.

In 1977, Hudson was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he continued to be a valuable player. Although his scoring numbers declined slightly, he provided veteran leadership and experience to a young Lakers team. Hudson played two seasons with the Lakers before retiring from professional basketball in 1979.

Throughout his career, Hudson was known for his professionalism and sportsmanship. He finished his NBA career with over 17,000 points, averaging 20.2 points per game. His legacy as a prolific scorer and respected player remains significant in the history of the Hawks franchise.

After retiring from basketball, Hudson remained active in various community and charitable activities. He was inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame and the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to the sport both on and off the court.

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