01 Mar 2026 Peyton Pierce – Guy-Perkins (501 Basketball Team 2026)

Peyton Pierce might be a fresh face for the Guy-Perkins Thunderbirds, but he is already making a mark as a cornerstone of the program. After moving from Quitman, the junior forward transitioned into a massive role for Coach Levi Lock. “He has never been in a leadership position in basketball before this year, but he has grown exponentially as a captain of our team,” the coach said. “He will be successful in life because he understands what it takes to lead and lift others up.”

Pierce’s versatility allows him to be a matchup nightmare, serving as the team’s top scorer, primary ball handler and rim protector. “He can handle the ball like a guard and also play as a big man,” Lock said.

For Pierce, the key to his success lies in a relentless work ethic that he’s used to overcome past internal struggles. “I’ve faced confidence issues the past several years,” he said. “I’ve just had to put my head down and grind through it. Now I’m most confident in my abilities.”

Outside the gym, the multi-sport athlete competes in golf and baseball, with hopes of playing the latter at the collegiate level. He remains active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and recently participated in the Guy community Christmas parade. 

As he looks toward a deep post-season run, he encourages fellow athletes to value their high school years: “You don’t have as much time as you think you do, so don’t take it for granted,” Pierce said. “Use it wisely!”