4-star SG Malachi Palmer commits to Maryland

Malachi Palmer, a four-star shooting guard in the 2024 class, has made his commitment to the Maryland Terrapins official.

The 6-foot-5 senior out of Mt. Zion Prep (MD) chose to play for Kevin Willard over programs like Seton Hall, Florida State, West Virginia, and Oklahoma State.

Palmer on his commitment

Palmer, a native of Harrisburg, PA, discussed his decision to choose Maryland with On3.

“I chose Maryland because of my relationship I have with the coaches,” he said. “I love their style of play and also the culture that coach Willard is building over there. It’s something that I want to be apart of. I feel like I will be able to earn good minutes as a freshman and also be able to grow and develop.”

His relationship and close proximity to the coaching staff at Maryland also played a role in his decision.

“I have a good relationship with the staff. It’s really convenient that they are right around the corner from my school so we talk often.”

Palmer has a message for ‘Terps fans.

“I’m excited to join the family! Go Terps!”

Palmer is Maryland’s first commitment in the 2024 class. Head coach Kevin Willard is looking to make at least one more big splash in this cycle — Derik Queen, one of the top big men in the country. Ranked 16th nationally, the Baltimore native has the ‘Terps in his final four schools, along with Kansas, Houston, and Indiana. The Montverde Academy (FL) senior recently unofficially visited the school and a decision continues to loom.

According to the On3 Top-150 Player Rankings, Malachi Palmer is the No. 109 overall prospect in the 2024 cycle. He’s also the No. 24 shooting guard prospect and the No. 2 player in Maryland.

Maryland’s season progression

This Maryland team has improved as the season has went on. The ‘Terps began the year dropping 3 of their first 4 games. Since then, they’ve won 8 of their last 9. In Kevin Willard’s second year at Maryland, he has the ‘Terps at a 9-4 overall record as they dive fully into conference play. Maryland’s next game is at home against No. 1 Purdue on January 2nd.

Senior guard Jahmir Young is leading this Maryland team in scoring, averaging 19.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists. The Upper Marlboro, MD native and Charlotte transfer is shooting 42.5% from the field and 35.2% from three.

Junior forward Julian Reece is also having a big year for the ‘Terps. The 6-9 big man is currently averaging 14.3 points and 9.7 rebounds. The Baltimore native is shooting 52.1% from the field.