University of Northern Colorado Athletics
Bears Bolster 2026 Class With In-State Stars Jeremiah Hammond and Drew Paine
11/18/2025 3:46:00 PM | Men's Basketball
GREELEY, Colo. – Northern Colorado men's basketball added two premier in-state standouts to its 2026 recruiting class on National Signing Day, signing guard Jeremiah Hammond and forward/center Drew Paine, head coach Steve Smiley announced.
Hammond, a 6'3 combo guard from Denver, and Paine, a 6'8 forward/center from Highlands Ranch, continue UNC's strong Colorado recruiting pipeline as the Bears add two of the state's most dynamic rising stars.
Jeremiah Hammond | 6'3 | Guard | Denver, Colo. | Christopher Columbus HS | Highlights
A confident playmaker and scorer, Hammond arrives in Greeley having built an impressive résumé at Cherry Creek, on the Nike EYCL circuit with the Pluto Prospects, and now at national powerhouse Christopher Columbus High School in Miami, Florida. Known for his competitiveness and clutch gene, including a memorable game-winning three versus Smoky Hill as a sophomore, Hammond brings a multi-level scoring ability and the versatility to play multiple backcourt roles.
Smiley praised Hammond's pedigree and upside, noting his growth within a basketball family that includes older brothers Julian (Colorado) and Christian (Santa Clara).
"Jeremiah is an extremely talented guard that can play multiple positions," Smiley said. "He can use ball screens to create for himself or others, and he has the knack to score at an extremely high level. A great kid from a great family, we can't wait to get him to UNC."
Hammond said the Bears' belief in him made the difference.
"The coaching staff took a chance on me and believed in me," he said. "They want to build me not just as a player, but as a person as well."
Off the court, Hammond enjoys pool, ping pong, and mini-hoop battles with friends. He plans to major in Communications and is driven by his faith, aspiring to reach the NBA and impact others spiritually.
What They're Saying:
"Jeremiah's leadership sets him apart," said Trey Harris, PLUTO Prospects Director. "He's one of the most complete players we've had—high IQ, long, and able to score from all three levels."
Drew Paine | 6'8 | Forward/Center | Highlands Ranch, Colo. | ThunderRidge HS | Highlights
One of Colorado's premier big men, Paine has been a force at ThunderRidge High School, earning First Team All-Continental League and Second Team 6A All-State honors while helping the Grizzlies reach the 6A State Championship game as a sophomore. His versatile inside-out skill set, paired with size, shooting touch, and defensive mobility, makes him a prototypical modern frontcourt player.
Smiley called Paine one of the cornerstones of UNC's 2026 class.
"Drew is extremely skilled and can play both inside and on the perimeter," Smiley said. "He can connect our offense in so many ways. He's a proven winner and an elite human being who will thrive in our community."
Paine, who starred on the UAA circuit with the Mountain Stars, said UNC felt like home from both an academic and athletic standpoint.
"I felt like I fit in from both a school and sports perspective," he said.
Away from basketball, Paine enjoys golf and spending time outdoors. He plans to major in Business Finance and pursue a professional career after college.
What They're Saying:
"DP is one of the most dynamic and versatile players I've ever coached," said ThunderRidge head coach Joe Ortiz.
Mountain Stars Director Steve Grabowski added: "The Bears are getting not only one of the most skilled bigs in Colorado, but in the country. UNC fans are going to love him."
Follow the Bears
Fans can follow and stay up to date on all the Bear action at uncbears.com and on social media. Follow the Bears on X (formerly Twitter) (@UNC_BearsMBB), Instagram (@UNC_BearsMBB), and Facebook (/UNCBearsMBB).
Hammond, a 6'3 combo guard from Denver, and Paine, a 6'8 forward/center from Highlands Ranch, continue UNC's strong Colorado recruiting pipeline as the Bears add two of the state's most dynamic rising stars.
Jeremiah Hammond | 6'3 | Guard | Denver, Colo. | Christopher Columbus HS | Highlights
A confident playmaker and scorer, Hammond arrives in Greeley having built an impressive résumé at Cherry Creek, on the Nike EYCL circuit with the Pluto Prospects, and now at national powerhouse Christopher Columbus High School in Miami, Florida. Known for his competitiveness and clutch gene, including a memorable game-winning three versus Smoky Hill as a sophomore, Hammond brings a multi-level scoring ability and the versatility to play multiple backcourt roles.
Smiley praised Hammond's pedigree and upside, noting his growth within a basketball family that includes older brothers Julian (Colorado) and Christian (Santa Clara).
"Jeremiah is an extremely talented guard that can play multiple positions," Smiley said. "He can use ball screens to create for himself or others, and he has the knack to score at an extremely high level. A great kid from a great family, we can't wait to get him to UNC."
Hammond said the Bears' belief in him made the difference.
"The coaching staff took a chance on me and believed in me," he said. "They want to build me not just as a player, but as a person as well."
Off the court, Hammond enjoys pool, ping pong, and mini-hoop battles with friends. He plans to major in Communications and is driven by his faith, aspiring to reach the NBA and impact others spiritually.
What They're Saying:
"Jeremiah's leadership sets him apart," said Trey Harris, PLUTO Prospects Director. "He's one of the most complete players we've had—high IQ, long, and able to score from all three levels."
Drew Paine | 6'8 | Forward/Center | Highlands Ranch, Colo. | ThunderRidge HS | Highlights
One of Colorado's premier big men, Paine has been a force at ThunderRidge High School, earning First Team All-Continental League and Second Team 6A All-State honors while helping the Grizzlies reach the 6A State Championship game as a sophomore. His versatile inside-out skill set, paired with size, shooting touch, and defensive mobility, makes him a prototypical modern frontcourt player.
Smiley called Paine one of the cornerstones of UNC's 2026 class.
"Drew is extremely skilled and can play both inside and on the perimeter," Smiley said. "He can connect our offense in so many ways. He's a proven winner and an elite human being who will thrive in our community."
Paine, who starred on the UAA circuit with the Mountain Stars, said UNC felt like home from both an academic and athletic standpoint.
"I felt like I fit in from both a school and sports perspective," he said.
Away from basketball, Paine enjoys golf and spending time outdoors. He plans to major in Business Finance and pursue a professional career after college.
What They're Saying:
"DP is one of the most dynamic and versatile players I've ever coached," said ThunderRidge head coach Joe Ortiz.
Mountain Stars Director Steve Grabowski added: "The Bears are getting not only one of the most skilled bigs in Colorado, but in the country. UNC fans are going to love him."
Follow the Bears
Fans can follow and stay up to date on all the Bear action at uncbears.com and on social media. Follow the Bears on X (formerly Twitter) (@UNC_BearsMBB), Instagram (@UNC_BearsMBB), and Facebook (/UNCBearsMBB).
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