Terps offer Indiana four-star forward Malik Williams
After impressing the Maryland coaching staff during the April live period, Fort Wayne Snider (Ind.) 2017 four-star power forward Malik Williams picked up an offer from the Terps May 2, according to his AAU program, Legit Basketball.
The 6-foot-11 Williams adds Maryland to a list of offers that already included Cincinnati, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan State, N.C. State, Purdue, Temple, Toledo, Wake Forest and Xavier.
Maryland head coach Mark Turgeon watched Williams play during the second April evaluation period at the Terrific 24 in Westfield, Ind., just outside of Indianapolis.
This past weekend, Williams’ AAU team participated in the Bill Hensley Memorial Run ‘n Slam at Fort Wayne’s Spiece Fieldhouse, where they competed against some of the top teams from the Nike EYBL, Under Armour Association and Adidas grassroots.
Williams got a chance to go head-to-head with another Maryland target, Jaren Jackson, on the opening day of the tournament.
On the second day, Williams scored 29 points in consecutive games to help his team advance to the quarterfinals. In the first of those games, Williams showed his versatility by scoring on nine 2-point field goals and two 3s as well as going 5-for-7 from the line in a 65-48 win over the Illinois Wolves.
[See TSR's Post-April Live Period 2017 Hoops Hot Board]
Williams played the second of his two 29-point outburst despite suffering from cramps in both legs. He once again showed his shooting range and handles by hitting several 3-pointers off the dribble and using a pump fake to drive and finish with a two-handed slam in a 62-58 win over Wisconsin Playground Warriors.
The Fort Wayne native showcased more of his defensive and rebounding skills later that day in a 78-57 win. Williams finished with 10 points, 15 rebounds, four blocks and a steal. He was also efficient, shooting 4-for-7 from the floor and doing most of his work from the post.
Most of Williams’ suitors hail from the Big Ten and his game fits what the Terps like to do. As such, Maryland could get serious consideration in his recruitment.