Tyshawn Pearson, a senior point guard for the Blue Devil basketball team, announced his commitment to William Paterson University on Feb. 28 via Instagram.
Pearson, a two-time varsity basketball captain, is a competitive and effective player as well as an encouraging teammate. Pearson has tallied 698 points, 330 rebounds, and 214 assists as a three-year starter.
As Pearson starts this new chapter, head coach Jim McKeon said, “Pearson has contributed tremendously. [Being] a three year starter at point guard in the Union County, Watchung Division is not an easy task and [Pearson] continuously has gotten better every year. Each part of his game has gotten better. He has been a staple of our program and something that we will miss going forward.”
Along with his exceptional skills, Pearson has led the team for two successful seasons. Pearson’s leadership and dedication to the program has been immeasurable. Senior teammate Will Kirby said, “Everyone wants a player like Tyshawn, not just because he’s good, but because he is a great friend and fun to have in the locker room. [He is] always cracking jokes and is a great captain, he always wants to win, which is what you want from a captain and always making sure that we bring our best game every single day.”
William Paterson University is located in Wayne, NJ, just 20 miles outside of New York. William Paterson is a powerhouse of progress for their students, the community, and the state. The University has more than 150 programs across four colleges. Historically, they compete in the New Jersey Athletic Conference, a Division III conference with a strong presence and balance between academics and athletics.
Pearson was looking at Division III schools but said, “William Patterson showed me a lot of love. They came to all my games and when I visited them, they treated me like family.”
McKeon noticed the dedication William Paterson had to Pearson as well. “Even when it wasn’t going great at times, they still came out and showed support,” said McKeon.
Additionally, McKeon applauded the coaching staff. “[William Paterson] did a great job when talking to [Pearson], making him feel like it’s a home to go to live and play for four years. He’s going to have the opportunity to get a good education and continue to play. I think it’s a great fit,” said Mckeon.
Pearson is excited for this new opportunity and said, “I hope to bring a NCAA DIII tournament appearance and trophy. We haven’t made it since 2015 and I hope to change this.” Reflecting on his time as a Blue Devil, Pearson said that “being a winner and growing up with my brothers” has been the most rewarding part of Westfield basketball.
