My buddy Tim Thompson told me many stories about Andy Hudson, who mentored him.
As far as great black players, there have been many. The list must begin with James Evans, considered by none other than Greenleaf the best player he competed against. They often played money games in Evan's Harlem poolroom.
Then we have the strange case of Cisero Murphy, arguably one of the best 14.1 player of his era (the 60's and 70's). He was for the most part kept out of major competitions until he was in his late 30's. Otherwise he may have won quite a bit more. He was the equal of Balsis, Lassiter, Butera and an older Irving Crane during his peak years. Of the young guns of that era, including Rempe, Hopkins and Varner, only Mizerak was a favorite over Cisero.
Another not so widely known black player was Javenly "Youngblood" Washington from Chicago. Mentioned often by Freddie, he is considered one of the best players from the 60's thru the 80's. He traveled little and not much is known about who he did or did not beat, but around Chicago his exploits are legendary. Maybe Freddie can tell us more about this brilliant but troubled player.
And let's not forget Bugs, who many consider one of the two best Bank Pool players ever (Eddie Taylor the other). He was also a top One Pocket player. Right alongside Bugs was Cannonball, who played all games exceptionally well. Part of his myth is that he used to go to the Straight Pool Championships of the 50's and 60's and challenge anyone there to a money game. ANY GAME!
The modern era has blessed us with the considerable talents of Cliff Joyner, ever to labor in the shadow of all time great Efren. And before Cliff, Gabby could play high speed 9-Ball with anyone. Cecil Tugwell was another all around monster until an "accident" ended his right handed playing career. He returned a few years later playing left handed, but never was quite the same.
In Los Angeles alone there were at least a dozen excellent black players in the 60's and 70's who were not widely known. A few were Rags Woods, Iceman, California Shorty, Black Nate, Texas Shorty, Rush Out Red, Texas Youngblood and Lotsapoppa. These guys were serious players, capable of beating any white champion out there. I suspect there were similar contingents in other cities.
Ike Runnels is another high profile player today, and I also suspect there are other lesser known players laboring away in poolrooms across America. Willie Munson could play a little too. My apologies for not mentioning Billy Palmer, one of the best players on the West Coast.
Gary spotted him a couple of balls playing one-pocket once and won some "bacon & egg" money. He was careful not to get too deep in a bad game but he was a good guy!
Like I said, seen him around lots. Never saw any talent though...sure wasn't tryin to play him any 1p either!