Pearson is running with the 16s and will add much needed size and length to the frontcourt rotation. He’ll be more of a utility and intangible type of guy who comes from a disciplined culture at Sidwell Friends. There were a handful of possessions where Pearson got his buckets out of pure will by putting himself in position offensively for tip-ins off misses. This Thrill 16s group has a talented stable of guards that could benefit Pearson if he continues to hang his hat on doing the small stuff. A focus on setting impactful screens, improving his hands and his aggression on finishes not only will raise the ceiling of this team, but also his high school career projecting for the years ahead.

-We wrote about Pearson as one of the highest risers in the 2027 class because of his potential as a wing prospect and still feel good about him long-term. Right now he serves as more of a W/F tweener that can block shots, rebound, put it on the floor a little bit, and hit the occasional C+S look. Improving his vertical pop, foot speed, cardio endurance, and touch around the basket would go a long way in carving out a role for a defense-first Sidwell program that can use his size. Whether he continues to grow or stays the same size, whether he develops in a bigger role on junior varsity or learns in a smaller role on varsity this season– I’m high on his upside while feeling comfortable with his floor.