Second-year Basketball Mountie Sam Pierson immediately made an impact with the Mounties in his first-season, being named the team’s Rookie of the Year. From Kingston, ON, he chose Mount Allison for its strong academic reputation and the ability to continue playing varsity basketball at the next level.

He began playing basketball in Grade 4 and spent seven seasons with the Kingston Impact. He also played four years with Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School, earning a spot in the provincial championships three times.

In his Grade 12 year, Pierson suffered a broken forearm and was unable to play for more than a year. He returned for Grade 13 to lead the team to an Eastern Ontario championship title, which he considers his most memorable sporting moment to date.

At 6’6”, Pierson says his greatest strength is his versatility.

“I am able to rebound, but I can also play a little on the outside,” he says.

A multi-sport athlete growing up, Pierson also played volleyball, hockey, and golf. He was on the honour roll throughout high school and was twice awarded Male Athlete of the Year. He also earned a spot on the Dean’s List in his first-year at Mount Allison.

”Being a student-athlete really allows me to benefit on and off the court,” he says. "It keeps me in line and helps with my time management."

Pierson was recently named Athlete of the Week at Mount Allison for his performance in a come-from-behind 78-71 win over rival Crandall Chargers. In a team leading 32 minutes on the court, Pierson scored 18 points, including three 3 pointers, plus 9 rebounds, and 4 assists.

“It was nice to contribute to such a good team win,” he says. “We have been playing well as a team.”

A chemistry student, Pierson plans to pursue pharmacy after graduation.