On the City Team, the loser in the game, we saw an incredibly performance by Ryan Pearson, a two-star recruit out of Christ the King high school who's headed to George Mason next season. The 6'6 small forward scored what has to be a record 36 points on 15-for 19 shooting from the field, to go along with 15 rebounds, 3 assists and 4 turnovers. Pearson will be considered a decent athlete at the college level, but he doesn't really stand out with his explosiveness or quickness, and doesn't appear to have the greatest wingspan either.
None of that mattered in this game, though, as his motor and excellent creativity skills in the lane took over, while he seemed to be involved in every play on the floor. He showed excellent ability to adjust, change directions, and take contact in the lane, showing very good body control and making excellent reads on what the defense was giving him. He finishes with both hands, incorporated spin moves, did a little of posting up, got out in transition, crashed the offensive boards for about a handful of putbacks, and also hit a step-back three-pointer, though that was his only jumper of the game, something that's considered a weakness for him by most scouting services.
In analyzing this game, it's important to note that Pearson's frequent success in the lane was somewhat facilitated by the complete lack of weakside shot blockers in the game, along with the typical defensive performances you see in all-star games. Regardless, with his motor, skills, and basketball IQ, he should be able to make a nice impact at George Mason, who may have gotten themselves somewhat of a steal.
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