DAHLONEGA – The University of North Georgia men's basketball program and head coach
Dan Evans have added three incoming additions to the program in their 2023 signing class. The Nighthawks' class includes Georgia native
JoJo Peterson, Illinois native Zach Hawkinson and Alabama product
Ja'mari Arnold.
JoJo Peterson | Junior | Guard | Johns Creek, Ga. | Mount Pisgah Christian | Purdue-Fort Wayne
| Head Coach Dan Evans: "JoJo brings experience and an unselfish style of play to our program. His ability to defend multiple positions and make winning plays while still being a dangerous offensive threat fits our style of play well. His ability on the floor is tremendous, but he will contribute far beyond the court. He is mature and excited to be a part of our program and its standards. It is always exciting to be able to add someone who fits UNG Basketball so well and is from right down the road. JoJo will have a really positive impact by simply being himself." |
Accolades
- Two-time All-State Selection (GHSA)
- 2021 Class A Private State Champion
- 2022 Horizon League Regular Season Champion
Peterson: "After my two years in Fort Wayne, I was looking to be a little closer to home, so when Coach Evans and the staff gave me a call, I was excited about the opportunity to do just that. As my recruitment in the portal continued, they showed a genuine and positive energy towards me and my family that didn't go unnoticed. When it was time for a decision, UNG stood out because of how it provided an environment I could thrive in as a player and person."
Zack Hawkinson | Freshman | Forward | Springfield, IL | Sacred Heart Griffin High School
| Head Coach Dan Evans: "Whenever I think of Zack, the word "winner" immediately springs to mind. He is physical, athletic, and multidimensional on both ends of the floor. Those tools will translate well with what we demand in our program. However, his mentality will be his biggest weapon. Zack's competitiveness and drive to help his team win set him apart from most young players. He works to be the best player he can be while understanding that it all comes down to helping the team win. He will rebound, defend, and make plays off the dribble while never forgetting about the dirty work that winning requires. We look forward to seeing his development every day." |
Accolades
- Two-time All-State Selection (IHSA)
- Class 3A State Champion
- Central State Eight Conference Player of the Year
- 2nd All Time Leading scorer in Sacred Heart Griffin history
- Three-time IHSA Sectional Champion, Two-time IHSA Super Sectional Champion
- Honor Roll Student
Hawkinson: "I am super excited to be a part of this program. Everyone has a championship mindset and works hard every single day. The coaches and players help each other out with everything, so it makes it easier, especially coming from Illinois. I can't wait for the season because we got some big things ahead and some exciting times. Overall super excited to be here and ready to get to work."
Ja'mari Arnold | Freshman | Guard | Huntsville, Ala. | Huntsville High School
| Head Coach Dan Evans: "Ja'mari possesses the traits that the guard position requires: quickness, understanding, ability to play with the ball in your hands. He also brings an infectious spirit and personality to drive a program forward. His skill set and athleticism give him tremendous ability to impact the flow of the game offensively and defensively, but his voice will allow him to lift the performance of his teammates. His ability to shoot and score while being aggressive off the dribble fit well with our program. He has experienced winning and knows the work that is required to maintain that expectation. We look forward to watching him positively impact UNG Basketball." |
Accolades
- Two-time All-State Selection (AHSAA)
- Three-time All-Region selection at Huntsville High School
- 1,000 Point scorer
Arnold: "I'm really looking forward to this upcoming season. We have a tight-knit program and a great group of coaches and staff who push us to be our best on and off the floor. I'm excited for the future."
