"Locked In and Leading: Floor General Fire with a Midrange Touch and Defensive Bite"

Malachi Patton

@malachipatton777

IG: @iamanklebully

6’0, 155lbs, Class of 2027

Prairie High School, WA

Malachi is a pure point guard in every sense of the word: unselfish, competitive, and locked in on doing whatever it takes to win. He’s the engine that drives the offense, controlling the pace, setting the tone, and finding the open man with good court vision. But he’s far from passive, when it’s time to take over, Malachi has the tools to make it happen. His middy is smooth and reliable, and his defensive presence is fierce, often shifting momentum with lockdown possessions. He brings energy, grit, and leadership every time he steps on the floor. Coaches can count on him to make the right reads, elevate his teammates, and bring consistent fire to both ends of the court. What separates him is his intensity on defense and his ability to shift gears, he gets into opponents, forces mistakes, and thrives in pressure moments.

This past season, Malachi averaged 16 points, 6 assists, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.4 steals per game and helped lead Prairie to a deep playoff run that ended in the Sweet 16 of the 3A state tournament. He elevated his game in the postseason, putting up 17.3 points, 5.25 assists, 4.25 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game across six high-stakes matchups. His biggest improvement came in his basketball IQ, learning how to break down situations, anticipate reads, and play with poise. He’s shooting 82% from the free throw line, and while his three-point shooting sits at 30%, he’s putting in the work to raise it. This offseason, Malachi is focused on adding strength and becoming a more lethal deep threat. Every rep is about developing.

Now playing with NW Legends NXT Pro 16U, Malachi continues to prove himself. He’s already dropped 25 against BTI United, and 23 against Rainer Select at the PRO16 League Session in Centralia. Just last week, he exploded for a 30-point game against 4A Mariner, sending a clear message: he can score with anyone, against anyone. He’ll be playing up with the 17U squad in July and is circling the NXT Pro Finals in Orlando (July 24–27) as a key opportunity to make noise on a national stage. His goal this summer is to put his name on the map and do whatever it takes to help his squad win.

Next season, Malachi is looking forward to making a deep state run with his brothers again. That experience last year, competing together on the big stage, was the most impactful moment of the season, and he’s hungry for more. What fires him up most is locking someone up on defense and letting his energy set the tone for his team. When facing adversity, Malachi stays grounded, keeps his composure, and sticks to his game. The best coaching advice he’s ever received is, “A game is 32 minutes, and anything can change, no matter how it starts.” That keeps him battling from tip to buzzer.

Off the court, Malachi finds peace in writing and creating stories. It’s where his mind can explore, reflect, and reset. He stays grateful, grounded, and motivated by the opportunity to play the game he loves. In his words: “I appreciate this opportunity, and I’m truly blessed.”

I assess that Malachi is a high-IQ point guard with authentic leadership, court awareness, and defensive grit. He sets the tone for his team with unselfish play, a strong midrange game, and an elite competitive spirit. He’s a true floor general who raises the level of those around him.

As Malachi continues to build strength and improve his deep shooting, expect him to become one of the most reliable two-way guards in his class. With his drive, consistency, and fearless approach, he’s poised for another breakout year, and coaches should be watching closely. Stay tuned.