Showtime

Essay 557 • Jun 2nd 2024

For 13+ years I’ve been documenting the sport of basketball in all corners of America, focusing on basketball hoops in far off places with a story to tell. It’s been a fascinating look into a quiet side of the sport and a deep contrast to the bright lights of NBA arenas.

Along the way I discovered another small culture with a special personality. Southern California is a unique part of the world, so it should be no surprise that the game of basketball there takes on a life of its own. Influenced by the vibrant beach life, pop culture, even religion. Basketball in Southern California doesn’t look like basketball anywhere else.



















 

Rob Hammer is a commercial and editorial photographer known for his dramatic style of shooting professional athletes, fitness, and adventure for clients such as Nike, Adidas, and Fox Sports. When not on assignment, his time is spent road tripping to work on documentary projects that focus on niche parts of American culture. All of which culminate in fine art photography books and gallery exhibitions.
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