Eagles in the Pros: Checking in With Kelly Hughes

Kelly Hughes earned herself recognition as one of the top women’s basketball players to play at BC thanks to 4 years of consistent play and a killer 3-point shot. She graduated as the all-time leader (male or female) in 3-pointers at BC with 322. After graduating from Boston College last spring, Hughes headed overseas to join USC Freiburg (in Germany). She is a starter for Freiburg and is averaging 18 points and 7 rebounds per game.

We recently talked to Hughes about her time at BC, adjusting to overseas play, and more!

BCI: Why did you choose Boston College?

KH: I chose BC because of the academic and athletic opportunities it provides its student athletes and because of the chance to be challenged in the classroom and on the court in the ACC. I knew I wanted to study business, and with the Carroll School of Management being one of the most prestigious in the country, it was something I couldn’t pass up. Also, the opportunity to compete in arguably the best women’s basketball conference in the country cemented my decision to become an Eagle.

BCI: You’re known for being an amazing 3 point shooter - was breaking that BC record a goal you came in with?

KH: As a first-year student athlete, there were so many new things I had to learn and so many responsibilities I had to meet both on and off the court that the possibility of breaking any record was never a thought. Adjusting to the college life, my demanding practice and game schedule, and meeting my academic responsibilities were my main priorities. It wasn’t until my junior year that I realized the record was within reach. Even then, the focus remained on winning games and getting better each day, and eventually breaking the record followed.

BCI: How do you think playing at BC prepared you for playing pro basketball?

KH: The opportunity to play in the ACC offered me the chance to compete on the biggest stage against the best players in the country. From a talent and physicality standpoint, the ACC is unmatched so I was confident I’d be ready for the professional level.

BCI: What has the adjustment to playing in Germany been like?

KH: The adjustment to playing in Germany has been a smooth one largely because of what the ACC presented on a nightly basis. I’ve continued to play the way I always played when I wore the maroon and gold, while learning my new teammates’ tendencies and adjusting to our new systems.

BCI: Did you speak any German prior to moving to Germany?

KH: I did not know any German at all before I arrived in Freiburg, but knew that wouldn’t be a problem because most people speak English here. I’m currently taking German lessons which has been a great experience.

BCI: What has been your favorite part of playing/living overseas?

KH: My favorite part about living and playing overseas has been the opportunity to travel the world and experience what every city and country has to offer. No two cities have been the same so it’s been awesome to experience different cultures, visit historical landmarks, and try local cuisine.

Official BCI Eagles in the Pros Questionnaire!

Favorite Taylor Swift song? Shake It Off

Cats or dogs? I’m actually allergic to both cats and dogs, but if I had to choose- dogs

Favorite place you’ve travelled for basketball? Italy

If you could be on any reality TV show, which would you pick? Shark Tank

Which teammate (past or present) would you want to be trapped on a desert island with? Emilee Daley