Recruiting Prospect: 2020 Camren Pierce
Recruiting Prospect: 2020 Camren Pierce
It was rumored during the off season that longtime Head Coach Dave Kleckner would be stepping down despite a plethora of returning lettermen, a quality transfer (Toby Okwuokei), and some impressive underclassmen—one being Camren Pierce.
Pierce is a 5-foot-11 sophomore with strong frame, outstanding quickness, and a grip of moxie. He excels on the defensive end due to his strength, outstanding lateral quickness, and active hands.
“I definitely take pride in my defense and Coach Kleckner always pushes me to a higher standard,” explains Pierce.
It’s not surprising that Pierce excels at the defensive end because under the Kleckner regime, the Eagles have a reputation around Southern California as one of the more suffocating defenses around. In other words, if you don’t defend, you’re not playing.
Pierce is a quality defender and his point guard skills are on the comePierce does excel at the defensive end and he’s a fearless competitor, but there are areas of this game that he knows he needs to improve if he is going to be recruited at the college level.
“Confidence is a big issue with me, but playing in the EYBL in the summer with Cal Supreme definitely prepared me for the rigors of varsity basketball heading into my sophomore season.
“In addition, I need to expand my offensive game,” explains Pierce. “My ability to finish around the rim needs to improve as does the consistency of my shot.”
It’s early in the process but there have been a couple of colleges that have taken notice of his evolving game including Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and St. Mary’s.
Etiwanda loses an outstanding contingent of seniors and Pierce will be expected to pick up the slack next season. With continued work on his craft combined with a fearless mentality that consumes him, this shouldn’t be an issue.