Meet RYAN PEARSON, a senior, from Far Rockaway, New York. Ryan is a sports management major and plans to be a college coach one day. Envision yourself in Ryan’s shoes; players sprinting back and forth on the court, the offense and defense swarming each other, a basketball gliding through the air, non-stop practices, intense sweating, and crossing your fingers that you’ll make a shot before the time clock buzzes. Ryan, #24, 6-6”, eats, sleeps, and breathes basketball.
HCGMU: When did you start playing basketball? What do you plan to do after college?
Ryan: I started playing basketball at the age of 12. In high school, it was great to be a part of a team and it kept me busy. In the four years, I played I had an amazing experience. I hope to get my degree and god willing play professional basketball somewhere either overseas or for the NBA.
HCGMU: How does GMU basketball compare to basketball at your high school, Christ the King?
Ryan: George Mason basketball doesn’t compare to my high school experience. College life in general is completely different. The practices are much more intense, competition is a huge factor, and it is the ‘real’ deal here. Mostly, college is what you make of it, and I believe I made basketball a blast for myself; by the decisions and hard work I put into it. George Mason basketball has been a great experience thus far. I got to travel, meet new people, and see many interesting places.
HCGMU: Were you sad to see Coach Larranaga leave?
Ryan: Coach Larranaga and Coach Hewitt, are two totally different coaches with different coaching styles. I was extremely upset at first, when coach Larranaga broke the news, but as a mature young man I understood his reasons and wished him the best of luck. However, I am anticipating this year’s start and I believe we can grow into an even stronger team! I think if we work extremely hard this year, we can make it to the Final Four.
HCGMU: What was your favorite game at Mason thus far?
Ryan: My favorite game at Mason so far was beating Villanova in the NCAA tournament last year. I have scored 1,000 points and grabbed 500 rebounds in my career as a junior. Our team had the best record in school history last year, 27-8, and we also went 16-2 in conference which is tied for the best ever in the conference. We won 17 games in a row, which is also set a school record.
HCGMU: What are your favorite sports teams?
Ryan: I am a huge sports fan all around! My favorite basketball team is the Los Angeles Lakers, football team is the Dallas Cowboys, and baseball team is New York Yankees. I hope they all have a fantastic season!