The first recruit for Prince George’s top men’s university basketball team signed on for the 2020-21 season, and he’s set to bring a competitive nature on the court.
Darren Hunter is joining the UNBC Timberwolves after graduating from Jasper Place High School in Edmonton, where he’s won both the city and provincial championships.
Dubbed an offensive attacker in the point guard position, Hunter says his passion and emotion for basketball is what could separate himself from the rest of the field.
“I am a very energetic player,” the 18-year-old adds in a team release.
“It’s been said I play with my heart on my sleeve, so you can see what I am feeling when I am playing. I take great pride in my defense, and being able to dominate on both sides of the floor. I can shoot the ball fairly well now, and I hope to be one of the best in Canada West, so expect me to shoot the ball a lot.”
Hunter is also a former GOOD Hoops teammate of UNBC freshman-phenom Fareed Shittu, who claimed a conference All-Rookie team slot from his breakout performance in the 2019-20 campaign.
He calls Canada West the best conference in the country, but understands there’ll be certain expectations and challenges up against other successful schools.
“I want to go out and be challenged every night, but have the opportunity to win games,” says Hunter.
“My hope is to make a deep playoff run, and even potentially make nationals. That would be an amazing experience. I expect of myself to play at a level that helps our team win, and a level that my teammates and coaches will be happy with.”
According to UNBC Athletics, the five-foot-11 product was overlooked when it came to scouting reports, until Men’s Basketball Head Coach Todd Jordan was introduced to Hunter through GOOD hoops.
Jordan says he took note of his new player’s work ethic when in action and believes playing with one of the most successful high-school programs in Alberta has shaped his game.
“He is a former provincial champion and played with a strong club team at GOOD Hoops. He is a bit undersized at this level, but Darren plays with a lot of fire and is really athletically impressive. He is an aggressive guard and we are excited to see him bring that edge to our basketball team.”
Hunter is set to enroll in commerce in the UNBC classroom with hopes of pursuing a law career.
He’ll make way to Prince George in September for T-Wolves training camp.
