Anthony Sampson

Inducted in 2018

Men's Basketball

As a Lion

Throughout the history of the Freed-Hardeman Men's Basketball program, Anthony Sampson will go down as one of the most memorable and entertaining players to put on an FHU uniform. A fan favorite throughout his four years at Freed-Hardeman, Sampson took pride in getting his teammates involved, evidenced by his single-season assist record of 272 assists during the 2011-12 season.

At the time of his induction, Sampson ranked among the best in FHU history in several categories including 2nd in career assists (504), 2nd in single-season steals (87), and 3rd in career steals (208). Throughout his time at Freed-Hardeman, Sampson led the Lions to two National Tournament appearances while posting 20-win seasons in each of the four seasons he played.

Sampson also received recognition at the national level, as he was ranked No. 1 in the NAIA in total assists (272) and assists per game (8.5) throughout the 2011-12 season. During his first season with the Lions in 2007, Sampson was named to the All-Freshman team while earning Second-Team All-Conference honors his senior season.

"Everyone, young and old, loved to watch Anthony play," said Jason Shelton, head coach for the FHU men's basketball program during Sampson's playing career. "He was a true point guard. His vision and ability to deliver the ball at the right time and place made his teammates more successful than they could have been on their own. His pressure on the ball set the tone with intensity at the front of our defense that all of his teammates had to follow. During my years at FHU, Sampson was one of the most memorable players I had the privilege of coaching."

Since his graduation from Freed-Hardeman in 2012, Sampson has been employed at Central Distributors in Jackson, Tenn. He is married to his wife, Jazzmaine, and they have three sons: Jaydon, Jordon, and Jacoby.