Recruiting Report: Malik Missouri (2021)
It looks like Malik Missouri might just be scratching the surface of his potential. Currently listed at 6-foot-5 with a 7-foot wingspan, the 16 year old wing prospect recalled his first playing experience in eighth grade.
“I used to be bigger than everyone else,” he stated. “I had to start transitioning to the wing and 2 guard.”
Last week at UAA III in New Jersey, Missouri had a standout performance for 16U Team Thrill during a gutsy comeback win over West Coast Elite NorCal. After the game, Coach Mookie Dobbins praised Missouri for his hustle and energy. Missouri explained why he works so hard on the court.
“I feel like that’s the key to winning games,” said Missouri. “If you don’t have that, you’re really not going to win a game. Unless you’re playing someone that doesn’t have as much energy or fight as you. Even if you’re not bringing anything to the game. Say if you don’t have any points or any rebounds, the energy is going to translate. Everyone else is going to have energy.”
Missouri is handling his business in the classroom at Gilman School in Baltimore where he is carrying a 3.6 GPA. Based on his grades and recruitment, it’s a safe bet to say he will be the first in his family to play basketball at the D1 level. But before his recruitment legitimately expands, Missouri must continue to showcase improvements in his skill set.
“I’m working on getting my downhill moves together so I can start attacking the basket more,” he explained. “More dribble moves and stuff like that. Just transitioning into more of a two guard.”
Oklahoma State and Princeton have respectively hosted Missouri on campus for visits. He currently holds an offer from Loyola (MD), and was offered by St. John’s under Chris Mullin. Missouri stated that his goal is to play at the high D1 level.
“Kawhi Leonard. I love watching Kawhi Leonard,” said Missouri when asked who he models his game after. “Also college Dwyane Wade and Kevin Durant.”
What can he bring to a college program?
“Energy. A lot of energy. I feel like I make other guys better on the team. I’m very active, and I feel like with that everything else comes. Like scoring, rebounding, and defense.”
Malik Missouri is currently ranked by Prep Hoops as a top-25 prospect in his class. To view the full ranking of Maryland and DC’s 2021 class, click here.