Pearce Jr. shines in Atlanta, using his athleticism and sharp basketball IQ to make an immediate impact on the court.

When the Atlanta Hawks selected Pearce Jr. in the 2025 NBA Draft, they knew they were adding a player with immense upside. His athleticism, combined with a high basketball IQ, made him one of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s class. Now, after just a few months in the NBA, Pearce Jr. is already turning heads and proving that the Hawks’ faith in him was well-placed.

Pearce Jr.’s impact on the court has been undeniable, and he’s quickly cementing himself as a valuable asset for Atlanta. From his explosive plays to his smart decision-making, Pearce Jr. has shown that his transition from college basketball to the pros is seamless.

The Early Impressions

When Pearce Jr. first stepped onto the court for the Hawks, fans and analysts alike were eager to see how he would handle the jump to the NBA. His skill set was intriguing: a dynamic scorer with an ability to defend multiple positions, strong ball-handling for a player of his size, and the kind of athleticism that could be a game-changer on both ends of the floor.

What fans saw in his first few games was an electrifying player who wasn’t afraid of the spotlight. Pearce Jr. immediately displayed his offensive versatility, getting to the rim with ease and showing off his mid-range game. But what was most striking was his basketball IQ. He made smart plays, never forced the action, and quickly earned the trust of his teammates and coaching staff.

Through his first several appearances, it was clear that Pearce Jr. wasn’t simply relying on his physical tools. His understanding of the game was equally impressive, making him a well-rounded contributor on both ends of the floor.

“Pearce Jr. brings a level of energy and intelligence that you can’t teach,” said Hawks coach Quin Snyder. “His ability to read the game and adapt quickly is exactly what we need as we continue to build this team.”

Offensive Versatility and Scoring Ability

One of Pearce Jr.’s most obvious strengths is his ability to score in a variety of ways. Whether it’s slashing to the basket, pulling up for mid-range jumpers, or spotting up from three, he has the offensive versatility that makes him a nightmare for defenders.

Standing at 6-foot-7 with a well-built frame, Pearce Jr. is able to use his size to finish through contact at the rim. His ability to attack the basket has been one of his trademarks since his college days, and it’s translated smoothly into the NBA. His first step is quick, allowing him to blow by defenders, and his finishing ability around the rim is elite. He uses his athleticism to get off the ground quickly, finishing dunks that seem to defy gravity.

But Pearce Jr. is not just a driver. His jump shot has also shown significant improvement, especially from mid-range. His smooth mechanics and high release point make him a difficult cover for defenders, and he’s shown that he’s more than capable of making shots when defenders back off. His three-point shooting, while not his most prominent skill, is steadily improving, and he’s made it a point of emphasis in his development.

“I’m always working on my shot,” Pearce Jr. said. “I know the NBA is a three-point league, and I want to be able to stretch the floor and keep defenders honest. But I still love getting to the rim and making plays around the basket.”

Through his early performances, Pearce Jr. has averaged 15 points per game while shooting a respectable 47% from the field. He’s also contributed in other areas, averaging around 4 rebounds and 3 assists per game, demonstrating that he’s a well-rounded offensive player.

Defensive Presence and Versatility

While Pearce Jr. is known for his offensive game, it’s his defensive prowess that has turned heads in the NBA. He’s already developed into a solid two-way player, capable of defending multiple positions. His combination of length, quickness, and anticipation makes him a valuable asset on the defensive side of the ball.

At 6-foot-7, Pearce Jr. is able to guard wings and smaller forwards with ease. His agility and lateral quickness allow him to keep pace with quicker players, and he has the strength to contest shots in the paint when needed. He’s also shown a knack for stealing the ball, using his active hands and awareness to disrupt passing lanes and create fast-break opportunities for his team.

What makes Pearce Jr. truly special defensively is his versatility. He’s not just confined to guarding one position. His ability to defend both on the perimeter and in the post gives the Hawks the option to use him in various lineups. Whether it’s sticking with a guard on the perimeter or guarding a bigger forward in the post, Pearce Jr. can do it all, and that type of flexibility is a valuable commodity in the NBA.

“Defensive versatility is a huge part of my game,” Pearce Jr. said. “I know I can make a difference on both ends of the floor, and I take a lot of pride in defending.”

Early on, Pearce Jr. has averaged 1.5 steals per game and has been a key part of the Hawks’ defensive schemes. His presence on the ball has helped Atlanta become one of the more disruptive teams defensively, and his ability to guard multiple positions has allowed Coach Snyder to experiment with different rotations and matchups.

Basketball IQ and Playmaking

One of the traits that has stood out most about Pearce Jr. in his rookie season is his basketball IQ. He’s not just a player who relies on his athleticism to get by — he understands the nuances of the game and makes decisions that benefit the team.

Pearce Jr. has demonstrated excellent court vision, often making the right pass to set up a teammate for an easy bucket. Whether it’s a quick drive-and-kick to an open shooter or threading the needle to a cutting teammate, Pearce Jr. has shown that he’s more than just a scorer. He’s a playmaker.

In addition to his passing ability, Pearce Jr. has the mental toughness to make the right decisions when the game is on the line. His poise in clutch moments has been impressive for a rookie, and he’s shown that he can handle the pressure of big games.

“I’ve always tried to be a student of the game,” Pearce Jr. explained. “I love watching film, learning from the best, and understanding how I can make the best play for the team.”

As a result, Pearce Jr. has averaged 3 assists per game, showing his ability to distribute the ball and create offense for his teammates. He’s also proven to be a key player in transition, where his speed and court awareness shine.

Impact on the Hawks’ Future

With the Hawks on the hunt for consistent playoff contention, Pearce Jr. represents a key piece of the team’s future. His combination of scoring, defense, and basketball IQ provides Atlanta with a potential cornerstone player who could eventually become a star in the league.

The Hawks’ roster, which already includes players like Trae Young and De’Andre Hunter, now has another dynamic player in Pearce Jr. His ability to play off the ball with Young and also take on a primary scoring role at times makes him a versatile weapon in Coach Snyder’s offense.

“Pearce Jr. has the potential to be one of the best all-around players in the league,” said Hawks veteran Clint Capela. “He can do it all, and he’s only going to get better.”

As the Hawks continue to develop and build their roster, Pearce Jr. will play a pivotal role in their pursuit of championship contention. His willingness to work on every aspect of his game and his maturity for his age give the team a bright future.

Off the Court: Pearce Jr.’s Growth and Influence

Beyond the basketball court, Pearce Jr. has already made an impact in the Atlanta community. Known for his humility and work ethic, Pearce Jr. has embraced his role as a leader both on and off the floor.

He frequently participates in local charity events and is committed to giving back to the community. His background, having grown up in a tight-knit family and worked his way up through the ranks of basketball, has shaped him into someone who understands the importance of community involvement and using his platform for good.

Pearce Jr.’s off-court presence has resonated with fans, especially those who see him as a role model for young athletes.

“It’s important to me to use my platform for positive change,” Pearce Jr. said. “I want to be someone young kids can look up to, not just for my basketball, but for how I carry myself.”

A Star in the Making

In a city known for its rich basketball history, Pearce Jr. is quickly becoming a player fans are rallying around. His combination of athleticism, basketball IQ, and leadership makes him one of the most promising young players in the league.

As he continues to grow and adapt to the NBA, Pearce Jr. is poised to become a foundational piece for the Atlanta Hawks. His ceiling is high, and with the right development, he has the potential to emerge as one of the NBA’s top players.