When Hudson Matthiesen arrived at Webb City this summer, he didn’t expect the transition to feel so natural. But from the beginning, he says the environment made an immediate impact. “I think team morale has been great. We all want to be there and put in work, and we all want to get better. I’m new to the team and everyone has been so friendly and welcomed me in. Feels like family.” That sense of belonging has set the tone for his senior year—a season he hopes will be the best of his career.

Matthiesen has high expectations for himself, both as a player and as a leader. “Some personal goals for me this season are to be a leader. Be a consistent go to option offensively. Make all conference first team,” he says. To accomplish that, he’ll be taking on a variety of roles across the floor. “This year I am going to be playing SF, PF, and C. I handle the ball some and I’m going to be playing in a lot of different spots.”

One of the most noticeable changes he’s seen during his short time with the Cardinals is their perimeter ability. “The biggest improvement I’ve seen since getting here has been our shooting. Every guy on the floor is going to be able to shoot. Not going to be easy to guard.” And with shooters everywhere, he prides himself on reading defenses properly. “What I look for when reading a defense is a defender not stepping up enough and giving me too much space. I also look for guys overplaying so I can get easy drives and layups… and guys that have their heads turned when my teammates cut for easy back door layups.”

Matthiesen believes this group has the pieces to make a legitimate run. “Some goals for our team this year is going to be to win the district. I think we’re a top team and I think we’re going to have a great year.” And on the defensive end, he sees even more potential. “Another goal for us I think personally is to be one of the top defensive teams in the conference. We are long and athletic and getting stops is very important.”

His preparation reflects the seriousness of those goals. “The best way I have found to prepare physically is to stay hydrated and get lots of sleep the week of the game.” And once he steps onto the court, his purpose is simple. “My mindset when stepping onto the court is what can I do to help us win.”

As he looks ahead, Matthiesen hopes his legacy goes beyond wins. “When I graduate, I want to be remembered as a really good basketball player who won a lot of games. Off the court as a follower of Christ… someone who treated everyone with respect and kindness.”

He also thinks fans should keep an eye on some new faces. “Something fans or outsiders may not know about us is we have two new transfers… I think we’re both going to come in and be really big for us as a team.”

For now, he’s settling in, finding his rhythm, and enjoying new experiences—like team camp dinners. “My favorite team memory is when we all went to Buffalo Wild Wings after team camp at Kansas University.”

A 6’6” senior in his first year at Webb City, Matthiesen plans to play college basketball and pursue a business degree.