Now or Never For Hendrix Tonight

It’s all or nothing tonight for 2005 stud power forward Richard Hendrix as his Athens (AL) HS team play in a live or die game. The 6-foot-8, 250 pound junior has led his team to a 27-2 record on the year but as the saying goes records reset this time of year back to 0-0. Athens will play in the first round of their area tournament. If they lose, the season is over.

Athens High School is enjoying one of their best seasons ever and could eclipse the school’s best 32-4 record with strong play in the area and state tournament. The Hendrix lead team will play as the one seed in their area and need a win to stay alive. If they win, they will play for the area championship on Saturday and move into state play next Friday.

According to head coach Venard Hendrix, who is also Richard’s father, said he likes his chances to move forward into the playoffs.

“The kids are just having fun,” Hendrix said. “This is one of our better years we’ve had here. They just need to stay focused on what we need to accomplish.”

With the success on the court and having one of the top players in country on the roster, several high major schools have made their way to Athens HS to see the younger Hendrix in action.

“There have been numerous schools here this season. Who knows how many,” coach Hendrix said.

Alabama, Auburn, Florida State, Indiana, Kansas, North Carolina, North Carolina State, Tennessee and Wisconsin have all made their way to Athens HS to see the No. 2 player on the Rivals75 in action this season.

Hendrix is averaging 26 points, 12 rebounds and seven blocks per game this year.