Hunter Hansen, star sharpshooter for the Fremont Silverwolves

by James Tate

The Fremont Silverwolves has a history of producing highly recruited and talented basketball players. Senior Hunter Hansen is a top player in the state and the next to carry the torch from Fremont. Hansen has verbally committed to playing at Weber State University but knows he has unfinished business at Fremont as region play gets close.

Reigning Region 1 Champions

Last season, the Fremont Silverwolves captured the region championship, and Hansen was a significant part of that team. Hansen led the team in scoring, averaging 18.4 points per game. The Silverwolves made it to the quarterfinal round of the state playoffs before losing to the American Fork Cavemen. Hansen knows they will get every team’s best effort, but the Silverwolves are ready for the challenge.

“Our biggest goals are to defend the region title and make a deep run in the state playoffs,” said Hansen. “I am loving playing with this group this year. We have a lot of fun on and off the court together. We need to continue to play hard and make a few shots.”

A prolific scorer for the Silverwolves, Hansen has scored over 1,000 career points and is averaging 20.5 points per game this season. Hansen has a smooth shooting stroke, the ability to find his spots on the court, and a quick release. Against the Northridge Knights, Hansen poured in a career-high 32 points, leading the Silverwolves to a 75-71 win.

All-around player

Hansen’s shooting skills do not take a back seat to his mental toughness, ability to distribute the ball to teammates, and battle for loose balls.

“I feel like I’ve always been a scorer, but I also want to make the right play every chance I get, whether it’s to score or to set up my teammates,” said Hansen. “I feel like my teammates do the same for me. I like to play fast and get out in transition. I feel like I’m becoming a better rebounder and defender.”

Hansen’s commitment to play at Weber State is a dream come true and an opportunity he looks forward to after high school. He has grown into an all-around skilled player at Fremont under the leadership of Head Coach Corey Melaney.

“I grew up going to Fremont games, and it’s been an honor to play for Coach Melaney,” Hansen said. “He coached me a bit when I was younger with many of these players. I love the way he competes.”

On and off the court Hunter Hansen is doing things to separate himself from other basketball players.

“I think the things that separate Hunter are his humility, care, and work ethic,” Coach Melaney said. “He doesn’t brag about himself. He doesn’t draw unnecessary attention to himself when he does something great, which is too many to mention. He is a fantastic teammate. He wants to be one of the guys on the team and not stand out. He cares about people. He cares about the athletes in the school. He cares about kids in his classes who may not get recognized for what they do. He has put in the time to be great. He works on things he needs to do to continue improving. Hunter is an absolute dream to coach both on and off the court.”

The Ultimate Teammate

Hansen has battled injuries and challenging moments on the court and has enjoyed the high moments. Through it all, he displays a calmness and steady demeanor and has the competitive fire to help his team win.

“I have played in many games growing up and have taught myself not to get too high or too low so I can enjoy the game for a long time,” Hansen said. “I try to have as much fun as possible along the way.”

Hansen’s success on the court results from hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence that he has been taught inside him. Accepting the challenge of being a leader and a great teammate is evident each time he is on the court, and he appreciates the ones who have helped him along the way.

“All of my coaches and trainers over the years, especially Uncle Andy,” Hansen said. “I have been lucky to be on some outstanding teams coached by excellent coaches, and some of my greatest moments have been when these teams have won championships on any level.”

Silverwolf family

Playing at Fremont has a special meaning; representing the school and community is important to Hansen. From the administration, coaches, and students, playing at “The Wolf Den” is different and something Hansen cherishes every time he is on the court.

“Both of my parents went to Fremont, as did several other family members,” Hansen said. “They have always been very proud to graduate from there, so it’s fun for me to continue the tradition. I love playing in front of Fremont fans. It’s a great community.”

The Hansen tradition will undoubtedly continue and be heard for years to come as Hunter’s younger brother and cousin are next to run the floor for the Silverwolves.

“I’m very excited to watch my little brother who’s in 8th grade,” Hansen said. He’s a great player and will be a superstar for the Wolves. My cousin Hudson Fishburn is also a very good player, and I’m excited to watch him.”

Fremont has a way to make the community and youth part of the team and connect. At halftime of each home game, a kid is brought to mid-court, recognized for their achievements, and asked who their favorite player is. You will often hear Hunter’s name mentioned, which brings a smile.

“Those kids that mention me are my favorite players,” Hansen said. “There’s a group of little kids that come to every game. I consider them my buddies.