With all of the offensive firepower that’s on the Grant roster, Mason has seemingly emerged as a do-it-all, Swiss Army knife kind of player for the Generals. The rising junior scored 11 points on a variety of jump shots and drives to the basket in their opening game win over West Linn, but also worked hard on hitting the boards by grabbing 9 rebounds. But what we really love about Mason’s game is not only his willingness but his ability to pass the basketball. He was always on the lookout for open teammates both in the halfcourt and in transition, finishing with a team-high 5 assists.

After playing this spring with Select Basketball, the transition over to school ball has been smooth for Mason, whose versatility offensively was clear in the game against Parkrose. The rising junior shot the ball well from the perimeter, was able to get to spots off the dribble, and finished well around the hoop, winding up with 18 points. But what really caught our eye was his passing. He showed good court vision and anticipation of teammates getting to the basket and delivered some nice dimes in transition for assists.

MVP

On a team loaded with high level young guys, Mason stood out the most to us. He helped lead the Generals on a tremendous late season run, that saw them take a home a trophy at the state tournament. For sure a team to watch out for as a state title contender the next two season. Mason is a physical wing player that can shoot it from deep & showed the ability to guard multiple positions on the defensive end of the floor.

Mason finished with 11 points and 5 rebounds, using his athleticism to impact the game in multiple ways. A solid outside shooter, Mason can stretch the floor while also attacking the rim when opportunities open up. He plays with energy, often keeping plays alive and competing on loose balls. Mason is an athletic forward who can elevate, and he complements that with his ball-handling and a reliable free-throw percentage, making him a steady contributor on the offensive end.

The only other lower seed to advance to the final 8 was the Grant Generals, who knocked off #7 see Lake Oswego in a battle of Grant’s youthful talent & Lake O’s veteran experience. In the end, the play of Mason & company was too much for the Lakers. Mason lead the effort scored 27 to lead the Generals to the mild upset. Grant advances to take on Central Catholic in a match up loaded with athletic wing players.

The continued development of Mason from supporting cast member to leading role has been fun to watch this season. The sophomore wing can get it done offensively at all three levels and continues to emerge with his defensive prowess as an on-the-ball defender.

Mason makes the move up to #2 and he’s been a huge reason why Grant has had so much success early on in the PIL race. The versatile 6-foot-4 swingman can do damage both inside and from the perimeter and he’s routinely one of the Generals top scorers and rebounders night in and night out.

Malik Mason Malik Mason 6'4" | SF Grant | 2028 State OR delivered a standout performance, showcasing his ability to pressure the defense and get to the free-throw line, where he went an impressive 14-for-15. A good athlete with length that adds versatility to his position, Mason consistently attacked the rim and made plays for others. He finished with 26 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists, highlighting his all-around impact and efficiency.

It didn’t take us long to spot Mason. Standing about 6-foot-3 with already a good build, you would expect him to dominate inside but he showed a variety of perimeter skills as well. He was quick to go from defensive rebound to attacking the basket on the other end and his jumper looked pretty solid. (JT)