ATLANTA - R.J. Hunter, son of head coach Ron Hunter, is one of the most recognized students on campus. Earning first team all-conference honors twice, he became the first player to hit 100 3-pointers in program history during his sophomore season. Following Georgia State’s 83-78 win over Oakland, Hunter is now sixth on the all-time scoring list with 1,264 points.
What is it like to play for your dad?
R.J. Hunter: It’s fun being here with him especially with the success that we’ve had. Playing for him made things really easy and he’s taught me everything I know. It’s really special for both of us.
After playing a few games, how do you feel about the season?
R.J.: I’m feeling good. We have a really talented team and I think we’ll be really good. I think we will be even better than last year, but we just have to keep grinding.
What is your favorite childhood memory?
R.J.: Being able to go to my dad’s games. I looked forward to that after school because pretty much all you have in Indiana is basketball. I loved those games. Now that I’m playing for him it makes it even more surreal, because I grew up watching him and now I’m here.
What is your dream NBA team to play for?
R.J.: Playing for the Indiana Pacers would be a dream come true. Just being at home and playing in front of all of those people knowing that I used to be in the stands would just be super special.
Why did you decide to major in psychology?
R.J.: I think it is really interesting. My mom and sister both majored in psychology as well, and it’s the only thing that I can focus on for more than 35 minutes at a time. I really get into some of my classes and sometimes it feels like I’m the only one talking.
What is the last thing you bought?
R.J.: Some food. I spend so much money on food a week and my mom’s always telling me to stop spending money on food. I probably bought some chicken sandwhich this morning.
What is something that the fans need to know about you?
R.J.: Come say hello. I think that the general stereotype of an athlete is that we’re always mean and we don’t want to talk but I’m always open to it. I love everybody around here because people in the South are so friendly. So if you see me, say hello. I will absolutely have a conversation with you.
What is the toughest loss you’ve ever had?
R.J.: Definitely UL Lafayette in last year’s Sun Belt Conference Championship game, just because we were so close. Everything we had worked for was two and a half minutes away. We had it and it just slipped away so that was definitely tough to swallow.
Who has had the biggest impact on your career?
R.J.: I would definitely say my father because he put the ball in my hands. He has taught me literally everything I know. I am 21 and still learning every single day from him.
What is your most memorable moment?
R.J.: My first basketball game at GSU against Life University. I had 30 points and I couldn’t have written the script any better for my first college game. It is something that I will never forget.
What is your best quality?
R.J.: I am a really nice guy, and I am really caring. I care about people and like helping people. I take pride in being a good person.
