Former Stevens Athlete Headed to Rome

By Chris LaClair
EAGLE TIMES SPORTS EDITOR
Hunter Larocque, a 2023 Stevens High School graduate and varsity basketball athlete, is headed to Rome to follow his dream of playing professional basketball overseas.

Rome City Institute provides an opportunity for students to participate in international academics while focusing on basketball. Student athletes practice with the school academy during the mornings, while they train in the evening on the club team that they are placed on.

“I chose Rome City institute because they had everything that I wanted in a college — a business school as well a chance to play basketball professionally overseas, which was my dream since I first picked up a basketball,” Laroque said. “Basketball means everything to me, so naturally, I want to make a career out of it.”

Hunter’s mother, Melanie Bunnell, was initially taken back by the long distance that her son would be away, but she understood that this was an amazing opportunity for her son.

“At first, I was like oh wow that is so far away, but how exciting that Rome City Institute saw the same enthusiasm and talent that I always knew Hunter had in him,” Bunnell said.

Former Stevens boys’ basketball head coach Ray Curren had nothing but praise for Larocque.

“Hunter was known for his shooting, but his quickness and hustle were also a key to our success,” Curren said. “It seemed like every key win we had involved a big Hunter hustle play late in the game.”

Long-time basketball teammate Jai-Lique Ribeiro, spoke of Larocque’s great leadership.

“Hunter is competitive, great shooter who always puts his body on the line for his teammates to win the game,” Ribeiro said. “He always lifted his teammates up when they were down.”

“I am forever grateful to my parents, coaches and community for their support,” Larocque said.

Larocque flies out to Italy on Monday.

You can follow his journey by visiting the institute’s basketball website at https://www.romecityinstitute.com/sport/basketball.