I remember watching Robert Horry’s journey unfold during his NBA years—the clutch shots, the seven championship rings, the way he carved out a legacy without ever being the star. It’s funny how his story mirrors what’s happening right now in leagues everywhere, including the scenario unfolding with teams like the Hotshots and Road Warriors. Almost counted out, they’ve suddenly surged back into contention with back-to-back wins, fighting tooth and nail for that last quarters berth. It reminds me why I love sports: the underdog narrative never gets old. RHJ’s career—though not as decorated as Horry’s—holds similar lessons, especially for undrafted players who often feel overlooked before they even begin.
When RHJ entered the league, he wasn’t a household name. Undrafted in 2015, he faced what many do: skepticism, limited minutes, and the constant pressure to prove himself. I’ve spoken with a few undrafted guys over the years, and the mental toll is real. One player told me he almost quit after his first season—felt like he was “almost given up for good,” to borrow a phrase from that recent Hotshots and Road Warriors update. But here’s the thing: RHJ didn’t let that define him. He adapted, honed his defense, and found niches where he could contribute. In my view, that’s the first lesson for any undrafted athlete: embrace the grind without expecting overnight success. It’s not about being the most talented; it’s about being the most persistent.
Let’s talk numbers for a second. RHJ played for five teams across six seasons, averaging around 7 points and 5 rebounds per game—hardly eye-popping stats. But dig deeper, and you’ll see his impact in moments that don’t always show up in box scores. He logged over 12,000 minutes in the NBA, and in clutch situations, his defensive rating often dipped below 105, a solid mark for a role player. Compare that to the Hotshots’ recent turnaround: they’ve won three of their last four games by an average margin of 8 points, pulling themselves from the brink of elimination. Both cases highlight how small, consistent efforts accumulate. I’ve always believed that undrafted players have a unique advantage—they’re hungrier. They’re the ones staying late after practice, studying film when others have left, because they know they can’t afford to coast.
What strikes me about RHJ’s path is how he leveraged his versatility. He wasn’t a pure scorer or a lockdown defender, but he could switch assignments, crash the boards, and make smart passes. That adaptability is crucial in today’s game, where teams value multi-dimensional players. I remember watching a game where he guarded positions 1 through 4 in a single possession—it was gritty, unglamorous work, but it earned him respect. Similarly, the Road Warriors’ recent back-to-back victories weren’t flashy; they relied on balanced scoring and tight defense, with five players hitting double figures in each win. It’s a blueprint undrafted players can follow: find your niche and excel at it. Don’t try to be the hero; just be reliable.
Of course, the mental side is just as important. RHJ faced setbacks—injuries, roster cuts, trades—but he maintained a resilient mindset. I’ve seen too many young players get discouraged after a few bad games or a demotion to the G League. Heck, I felt that way early in my coaching days when my strategies didn’t pan out. But RHJ’s story teaches us that perseverance pays off. Take the Hotshots, for example. Earlier this season, they were written off after a 5-game losing streak, yet here they are, fighting for a quarters berth because they didn’t quit. For undrafted players, that resilience is non-negotiable. You have to treat every opportunity like it’s your last, because in this business, it might be.
Now, let’s get practical. How can undrafted players emulate RHJ’s success? First, focus on conditioning. RHJ was known for his stamina—he often played 30-plus minutes in high-intensity games without a drop in efficiency. Second, build a support system. He credited mentors and teammates for keeping him grounded, something I’ve always emphasized in my workshops. And third, stay ready so you don’t have to get ready. The Road Warriors’ recent surge came from players stepping up when it mattered, much like RHJ did in playoff atmospheres. It’s about seizing the moment, even if you’re not the star.
In wrapping up, RHJ’s career might not have been Hall of Fame material, but it was impactful. He showed that undrafted players can carve out meaningful careers through grit, adaptability, and mental toughness. As the Hotshots and Road Warriors battle for their quarters berth, their journeys echo the same theme: success isn’t reserved for the chosen few. It’s earned by those who refuse to give up. For any undrafted player reading this, take heart. Your path might be harder, but it’s yours to shape—and stories like RHJ’s prove that the underdog can have the last laugh.