4-star WR Malik Clark stays home and commits to the South Carolina Gamecocks

When Malik Clark committed to Florida State late in July, he chose the Seminoles over South Carolina. the Gamecocks were considered the favorite to land the four-star wide receiver out of Rock Hill (S.C.) much of his recruitment, so after he committed to the ACC program, the Gamecocks never gave up.

Shane Beamer was heavily involved. Wide receivers coach Mike Furrey was consistent. The in-state program continued to pursue the local playmaker and it paid off.

After recently decommitting from Florida State, the No. 221 prospect in the On3 Industry Ranking has committed to South Carolina.

“They kept recruiting me, they made sure I felt the love from the program and I have committed to South Carolina,” Clark told On3.

Even when he committed to another school, the Gamecocks were always in the back of his mind. The communication stayed the same, he returned to Columbia for the Akron game and then for the Ole Miss game. He decided it was best to stay home.

“South Carolina has always been a great fit for me, but now I see it’s unfinished business in the state to be handled. I like everything about South Carolina. The love from the program, the coaching staff and how the fans can’t wait to get on field are all things that stand out to me. Those are reasons I committed.”

Clark wants to help South Carolina win an SEC Championship

Beamer played a role too. He was very active in Clark’s recruitment. Furrey’s connection was key too. Now Clark can’t wait to play inside Williams-Brice Stadium as a Gamecock.

“I want to help win a lot of games and I can’t wait to play that orange team,” Clark said. “Coach Beamer was one the first head coaches to come see me, which meant a lot, and it still does. Coach Furrey has always been here for me and he keeps the energy very positive.

“Now I get to stay home. It means a lot to me and to my family to play in front of them and help the state get an SEC title and to get into the national conversations again.”