Prospect Spotlight: Lino Malual (2019)
One of the many top prospects coming through the Des Moines North system right now is 6-foot-2 shooting guard Lino Malual. Iowa’s 27th-ranked 2019, the bouncy sophomore uses his great athleticism to his full advantage on the court, but…
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Continue ReadingOne of the many top prospects coming through the Des Moines North system right now is 6-foot-2 shooting guard Lino Malual.
Iowa’s 27th-ranked 2019, the bouncy sophomore uses his great athleticism to his full advantage on the court, but adds a certain amount of skill to his game too.
“A lot of coaches have told me to use my athleticism and my jumping ability, which has really helped me a lot. And in game situations I’ve been able to use that to get boards and take control. And I’m working on becoming more of a shooting guard for North High School, I need to be more involved for my team and become a big asset. And I think this year I’ll make a big difference for my team,” said Malual.
“For my high school, my coach (Chad Ryan) told me I have a good shot, and that it could be useful for game situations. So he got me into the gym and has helped me work on my shots and my 3s, and I’m continuing to work on that.”
Malual starred with one of Iowa’s best 15U teams last spring and summer, Kingdom Hoops Elite, where he was more of a role player while playing alongside top-5 2019s Tyreke Locure and James Betz.
“It’s hard when there’s all stars on one team, one game one person will go off, and the next game somebody else will,” said Malual. “But it’s really been nice working with them, and some of them could become D1 prospects in the future.”
And now with his sophomore season just months away, Malual is looking forward to showcasing his gained confidence and making a big impact on a Polar Bears squad that should be very good this winter.
“This year Chad (Ryan) expects me to be dominant, and to bring my instincts and that fire, and I think I have it in me. And Chad really believes in me and he’s giving me a chance to start and become fierce and dominant,” said Malual, who mentioned one individual goal he has set for himself.
“D1, I know it’s a big step, but I know that I really need that mind-set if I want to get there. And I have to sacrifice my time and get into the gym. And I’m really looking forward to getting into the gym and working on my game.”