Given the current structure of grassroots basketball, it’s becoming a rarity to see a player who wants to actually stick by their coach, team, or city. Most guys are opting to join national-level programs (typically) under the premise that they’ll be able to play better opponents, place increased emphasis on development, and put in the necessary work to properly prepare for the college game. However, the contrasting viewpoint has a lot of advantages as well. Take someone like Amari Pearson, for example. There were certainly opportunities for him to head for greener pastures (his previous transfer was due to unforeseen issues within the school itself), but it’s unclear if that would actually benefit him in any way.
By staying at Fayetteville Academy, Pearson is going to be the undisputed leader on a nightly basis—and his production will reflect this notion. Upon actually watching the Eagles, his status is evident from the opening tip. His long, strong, athletic two-way identity is arguably at its best when operating within a specific role, but Pearson is more than capable of dictating the action as the focal point. He does a great job of getting downhill and attacking the basket, both in transition and the half-court, and can knock down jumpers at a respectable rate along the perimeter. Pearson’s general toughness and ability to physically overwhelm opponents allows him to truly shine on either side of the ball. He’s a suffocating defender at the point of attack, positions himself well to force a ton of turnovers, and rebounds the ball at a nice volume for his size/position.
It’s easy to appreciate everything he does for this squad, but Pearson was already an obvious scholarship-level prospect prior to the high school season. The lack of schools extending offers to the two-way guard is legitimately perplexing. He’s shown the ability to lead or be an exceptional complementary player, and is currently better than plenty of other prospects who are receiving similar opportunities. Regardless, expect Pearson to continue putting on a nightly show as one of the more productive all-around players across North Carolina.