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Northwestern's Griffith Excels in Basketball and Softball

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 23rd 2026 at 11:05 GMT by Chicago Tribune
      Locales: Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, UNITED STATES

Evanston, Ill. - As Friday, January 23rd, 2026, approaches, anticipation builds for Northwestern University's basketball and softball seasons. While both teams prepare for their respective campaigns, one athlete stands out as a vital, and remarkably unique, asset: sophomore Camryn Griffith. Griffith's unparalleled commitment and skill set, seamlessly blending high-level performance in both basketball and softball, have quickly made her a focal point for the Wildcats' athletic program.

Griffith's journey is a testament to her dedication and a love for both sports. Hailing from Missouri, her passion for basketball sparked first, a common trajectory for many young athletes. However, softball runs deep in her family's tradition, creating a powerful pull that ultimately led to her exceptional dual-sport participation.

Balancing the demands of two varsity sports at a Division I level is a monumental challenge. The schedule is relentless, requiring intense time management and physical resilience. Griffith acknowledges the difficulty, stating, "It's a lot. There's a lot of time management and a lot of physical strain. But it's also really rewarding." This sentiment encapsulates the core of Griffith's approach - embracing the challenge and finding fulfillment in pushing her athletic boundaries.

Last season, Griffith established herself as a key player for the Wildcats basketball team, starting every game and contributing an impressive average of 9.8 points and 4.5 rebounds. Expectations are high for her continued prominence this season, where she's poised to lead the team's offensive efforts. Following basketball's conclusion, Griffith will seamlessly transition to the softball diamond, where she's expected to secure a starting role as an outfielder, further showcasing her versatility.

The coaching staff unequivocally recognize Griffith's extraordinary talent and dedication. Elizabeth Miller, head coach of the basketball team, praised Griffith's commitment and team spirit, stating, "She's one of the few athletes who can truly excel at this level in two different sports. Her commitment is incredible. She's a great teammate and a joy to coach." Similarly, Kate Lundy, Northwestern's softball coach, highlights the unique skillset Griffith brings to her team: "Camryn brings a unique skillset to our team. Her speed and athleticism are invaluable."

Griffith's remarkable ability isn't solely attributed to inherent talent; it's the direct result of unwavering commitment and tireless effort. She meticulously dedicates countless hours to refining her skills, participating in both individual training and team practices. This dedication isn't just about building proficiency; it's about fostering a mental fortitude necessary to navigate the pressures of competing in two demanding sports simultaneously. As Griffith puts it, "It's a constant balancing act, but I love both sports, and I wouldn't trade it for anything."

As the 2026 seasons draw near, Griffith's dual-sport prowess will be instrumental to the success of both the Wildcats basketball and softball teams. Beyond the individual contributions on the court and field, Griffith's presence significantly elevates the talent pool and provides valuable depth for both squads. Her ability to compete at such a high level in two distinct disciplines makes her an invaluable asset, serving as an inspiration to her teammates and a source of pride for Northwestern University. The Wildcats basketball team is scheduled to open their season on November 14th against DePaul, while the softball team's first game is slated for February. The anticipation surrounding Griffith's continued performance, and the team's overall success, is palpable throughout Evanston and beyond.

Griffith's story underscores the potential for exceptional athletes to thrive in multiple disciplines, challenging the conventional notion of specializing early. It's a narrative of passion, perseverance, and the rewarding pursuit of multifaceted athletic achievement.