By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The basketball world is mourning the loss of Alfredrick Hughes, the legendary Loyola scorer who passed away on Friday at the age of 63.
A cornerstone of the Ramblers’ historic 1985 Sweet 16 run, Hughes remains the program’s all-time leading scorer with 2,914 points, a mark that continues to rank among the highest in NCAA history. Beyond his point total, he holds school records for field goals made, field goals attempted, and free throws attempted, while also ranking fourth in career rebounds and tenth in steals.
Following a standout collegiate career that earned him All-American honors and a first-round selection by the San Antonio Spurs in the 1985 NBA Draft, the Chicago native transitioned into a prolific professional journey. After 71 games with the Spurs, he spent eight years as a relentless scorer in top-tier leagues across Italy, Belgium, Israel, and Greece. He balanced his European success with dominant performances in North American minor leagues like the CBA and WBL before retiring in 1994.
Loyola, which retired his No. 21 jersey and inducted him into its Hall of Fame, remembered him as a catalyst for the program’s resurgence.
“Alfredrick and I were more than teammates,” said Carl Golston in Loyola’s press release. “He was my brother for over 45 years. He was the main reason I transferred to Loyola in 1982. Alfredrick has stamped his name on Loyola basketball forever. We will never forget him, Alfredrick The Great!”
“Today is a sad day for Loyola,” mentioned former Ramblers assistant coach Doug Bruno. “The loss of Alfredrick Hughes touches all former Loyola players, administrators, coaches, and fans.”