By Matt Browning
Wichita Northwest’s Darrian Hammond has already proven to be one of the top players in the City League, but he knew he had to make some improvements to his body so that he can be even better in the 2025-2026 season.
“Over the offseason I’ve taken the weight room more seriously,” Hammond said. “I’ve been in the gym as much as possible working on my craft.”
Now a senior, Hammond understands what is job for the Grizzlies will be.
“I am excited to play with my new teammates, and step up to the leader role after playing behind some great seniors my past years in the program,” Hammond said.
Hammond averaged 11 points per game a year ago on 64 percent shooting from the floor and shot 41 percent from behind the three-point line, which was top five in school history.
But he sought to improve his offensive game in the offseason.
“This year I want to be able to show that I can score with both sides of my body,” Hammond said. “To do so I have been doing a lot of offhand workouts.”
There are a few goals Hammond has for himself and Northwest this season.
“Some goals I have for the team are making a run for state, and winning the Topeka mid-season tournament again,” Hammond said. “As far as individual goals I am striving to make first team all-league this year.”
