Three-Star PF Malcolm Thomas commits to Villanova

Hyattsville (Md.) DeMatha Catholic 2024 three-star power forward Malcolm Thomas has committed to Villanova.

The 6-foot-8, 195-pound senior chose the Wildcats over Cal, Florida State, Vanderbilt, and Xavier.

“Ultimately, my connection with the Villanova staff made the difference,” Thomas said to On3. “Nova feels like home. I see the vision that coach Neptune has for me and I see myself fitting in perfectly with the way they play. I love working and improving as an athlete and the culture of hard work and tenacity at Villanova is definitely something I can’t wait to be a part of. On top of that, the Big East is such a special conference, so I’m looking forward to being a part of something special.”

In his own words, what type of player is Villanova getting in Thomas?

“I would describe my game as evolving. I love to attack the rim and will try to dunk on anyone in the way. As far as my game in particular, drives to the basket from the arc, finishing at the rim, drive and kicks, knocking down shots, catch and shoot, perimeter defense, interior scoring, interior defense, shot blocking, rebounding, I could keep going. In this day and age, I have to have the ability to do multiple things so whatever the coaches need, I’ll be ready to give them.”

Thomas has a message for Nova fans.

“To the fans of Villanova, I want to say y’all got someone who will work for everything. I don’t accept handouts and I won’t start when I get to college. Being where I’m from in the DMV, grit and tenacity is what makes us who we are and like my guy Justin Moore, I’m going to bring that DMV culture on the court to Villanova.”

Thomas is ranked as the No. 118 overall prospect in the 2024 class, according to On3’s Top-150 Player Rankings.

Thomas Scouting Report

“Malcolm Thomas is a lengthy forward prospect who plays aggressively, with a lot of quick-twitch. He is an excellent defender, both in the passing lanes and as a weak-side shot blocker. He uses his length and natural timing to disrupt plays. Thomas can slide his feet on the perimeter and has the size to switch and guard down a lineup in a possession. Offensively, he is at his best when attacking toward the basket. He is fine in straight lines in the half court and can be very explosive around the basket. He needs to continue to develop off the bounce and to extend the range on his jump shot. He is at his best out of the dunker spot, in transition, and in attacking our backs. Malcolm is the son of former NBA center Etan Thomas. He is a guy who makes hustle plays and does a lot of the little things that help connect teams.” – On3’s Jamie Shaw