Malensek Staying Patient
It can’t be easy for Gage Malensek to remain patient with his recruitment.
An instrumental piece to a talented Iowa Barnstormers squad, the Brookfield Central point guard has produced at a high level throughout the spring, but continues to wait for his first scholarship offer — at any level.
However, the class of 2019 floor general hasn’t been bothered on that front and continues to take a mature approach going into the summer.
“It’s about that one good offer and not just getting a ton,” Malensek told Prep Hoops Wisconsin. “You see guys rack up offers, but how many of those are real, or a good fit, or somewhere you could actually succeed?
“I’m looking for quality over quantity.”
Malensek is generating interest from both Division 1 and Division 2 programs this spring. Furman, UW-Milwaukee, Miami (OH), and UW-Green Bay are all involved at the D1 level.
Malensek said the Red Hawks currently appear the most interested.
“I went up there for camp last year,” said Malensek. “I met their coaching staff and saw the facilities. I still talk to them pretty frequently.
“They’re targeting two point guards and those are their primary options. If those guys commit somewhere else, they’ll take a stronger look at me.”
In Division 2, both Hillsdale and Lindenwood are eager to see if the D1’s pass on the 6-foot-1 lead guard.
Malensek visited Hillsdale in the spring.
“It’s a well put together college,” he said. “It’s smaller, but a well-rounded place.”
Lindenwood is potentially looking to pair Malensek with his Brookfield Central teammate Cole Nau.
“They come to a lot of stuff and talk to us,” said Malensek. “They sat down Cole and I and told us we’re among the top prospects in our class. We could have a big impact when we come in as freshman. They’re waiting to see what happens with us after July.”
As a junior, Malensek averaged a team-best 20.1 points and 4.3 assists per game, helping lead the Lancers to a Greater Metro Conference Championship.
Malensek has no timetable for a decision and will re-evaluate things following the July evaluation period.
“Number one is education,” he said. “Second is the culture — the way they play and the way they teach things. Third would be distance and how I’m going to like it there.”