FROM B1 UPEI

lead UPEI to qualify for the playoffs, despite a large roster turnover from the previous season that resulted in several first-year players joining the team.

Pearson also became a part of the Panthers’ leadership group as an assistant captain.

Pearson, named an AUS second-team all-star, confirmed he will return for a fourth season with the Panthers.

“I love it (in P.E.I.),” said Pearson. “It’s really flown by.

“From my first year to now, it’s crazy to see how far I’ve kind of come being so far away from home. When I played (major) junior (in Owen Sound, Ont.), I was away from home, but it was only like two hours and wasn’t too bad.

“P.E.I. has become my second home now, so I love it there and I look forward to finishing out (my university career) there.”

“It didn’t feel real, and the only thing going through my head was, ‘Don’t trip’ (on the way to accept the award). It was a dream come true.”

Emily Duffy

Scott followed in the footsteps of former teammate Elijah Miller, who was a twotime UPEI male athlete of the year.

“I look at (Miller) as a big brother; I wanted to carry on that legacy for the men’s basketball program and continue the culture of winning and always embrace everything and take everything all in,” Scott said in a phone interview with Saltwire. “I want to leave a legacy when I leave P.E.I.”

Scott, who plans to return for his fifth and final year of eligibility next season, is coming off a strong 2023-24 campaign. Scott recorded career-highs in points (19.4), field-goal percentage (46.0), assists (2.7) and steals (1.8). Scott, who led the AUS in minutes played and finished fourth in scoring, was named an AUS second-team all-star for the first time.

“When I look back, I think every single year I have progressed academically and, on the court,” said Scott. “Every single year I grow and learn different things that will make me better and improve my game, improve my academics.”