Prospect Spotlight: Malik Coats (2018)
Malik Coats is an impressive young scoring wing/forward. The 6’5 Team Washington Elite 2018 prospect just has a knack for getting buckets. He is a sound perimeter shooter with a clean looking stroke from three. Also had a nice shot fake where he let his man fly by and then drilled a pull up jumper. Malik will either need to develop point guard skills to become a D1 player, but early in the process he is worth monitoring. Last year Malik was awarded First Team 2A SPSL All League honors and has been building his resume from then.
The guard broke down his junior year campaign.
“I started varsity at Renton High School this year. We are a really good program and have produced many college prospects. I used this year to focus in on my skills and develop as a leader. Next year it is going to be my team. I took this opportunity to get good and work on my craft. Playing with Team Washington Elite 17U had really helped my game explode to another level. With my size and length I was able to play multiple positions and show that I am all around player.”
He averaged 12 points and 6 rebound per game as a junior for Renton High School. Malik breaks down how he was able to say consistent.
“It was exciting. It was a little tough at first because I had to adjust from playing the wing most of my sophomore year to helping in the post and developing my back to the basket game. It is a tough situation, but I think I handled it. I think I opened some eyes and made a name for myself. People know who I am now. I have to just keep on going. I was able to stay consistent by continuing to stay in the gym even during he season and working on my game. Using the any off days I can to work on my mind and body. Watching game film and taking certain moves from some of my favorite players and adding that into my game.”
Malik is a very athletic forward who can play 3 different positions. He can excel in the open court and finish at the rim strong. Getting to the rim off the bounce is something I would like to see him work on especially standing at 6 foot 5. While driving the ball is his best attribute. Malik is also a very good catch and shoot player which shows shooting 41% from the 3 point line. Defensively his athleticism is also a factor as he is very good at playing the passing lanes while also being a solid help defender under the basket. Malik can also step out and guard the opponents best player, which shows he does not back down from competition.
When his game is flowing what is he doing best?
“I am a shooter. I am a really good shooter that can also play defense. I try to attack the rim and get to the bucket. I have been working on my ball handling heavily to increase my ability to play 3 different positions. Playing off the ball during high school season and playing on the ball during AAU has helped me develop skills in both instances. Rebounding and Blocked shots are an area I want to continue to increase in. I’m one of the tallest players on my team and I want to give more of an effort on the glass on both ends of the floor.”
For his Team Washington Elite 17U team he talked about what his role is on the squad.
“I bring scoring, athleticism, length and passion to the team. My job is to set the tone for everybody. This upcoming July we will be playing some very high competitive tournaments, which will give me a chance to put my full arsenal on display.”
What is recruitment looking for you?
“I currently have some interest from some smaller schools around the area and some JUCO programs. This summer I am hoping that I can really put my name on the map and start to receive some interest from some big name schools.”
I believe that most D3-JUCO schools should start to take notice of this young man, especially playing on a high caliber AAU organization.