Anders Pierson: Mastering Data Science and Forging a Path in Sports Analytics at UNC Charlotte
Anders Pierson is a graduate student at UNC Charlotte, pursuing a Master of Science in Data Science and Business Analytics, with an expected graduation date of May 2025. Originally from Waxhaw, North Carolina, he has a strong connection to the university due to his undergraduate years there. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with a concentration in Data Science and a minor in Statistics. Anders is passionate about music and sports, playing both acoustic and electric guitar, collecting vinyl records, and enjoying outdoor activities like fly fishing and hiking.
During his time at UNC Charlotte, Anders has been actively involved on campus. He has completed various internships, including roles as a Women’s Golf Analyst and Men’s Basketball and Football Analyst at NinerStats. He progressed to becoming the Lead Football Analyst in Fall 2023. His achievements include earning the rank of Eagle Scout from the Boy Scouts of America and receiving the Network of Enlightened Women’s Gentleman’s Award Scholarship.
Anders chose UNC Charlotte for its familiar environment, excellent faculty, and accessibility. His interest in data science stemmed from a fascination with probability and statistics, which he recognized as crucial components in making informed business decisions across various industries. He aspires to pursue a career in sports analytics and has a strong desire to work with sports teams, aiming for a leadership position within a respected franchise.
One of Anders’ most cherished memories revolves around UNC Charlotte’s football victory over the Duke Blue Devils after the COVID pandemic. The win marked the team’s first victory against a Power 5 opponent, and the celebration on the field became a lasting memory for him. He attributes his growth and experiences to the guidance of Professor John Tobias, the Sports Analytics Program Director, whose mentorship and programs provided valuable insights and opportunities.
Anders offers advice to future UNC Charlotte students, encouraging them to face challenges head-on and explore new opportunities during their college years. His post-graduation plans involve joining an NFL analytics team or a college program’s analytics staff, with the ultimate goal of leading his own department within a successful sports franchise.