Blue-chip son of NBA legend commits to SMU originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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Hakeem "The Dream" Olajuwon's son has made his college decision.
Abdul-Malik Olajuwon, a top-60 recruit, has committed to SMU, according to ESPN.
He reportedly visited the campus in Dallas last week before announcing his decision. The 2027 four-star guard will make a splash in the ACC without going to Duke or North Carolina.
"Their belief in me, and their plan for me with their system, fits me very well," Olajuwon told ESPN. "They play to win, and that's my style. Coach [Andy] Enfield sees me making an impact as a freshman, playing point guard and helping on the defensive end."
Olajuwon was accompanied by his Hall of Fame father on the visit to SMU. This is a major pickup for the Mustangs, who are looking to turn the heat up a bit with recruiting.
Olajuwon is a Texas native who attends IMG Academy in Florida. The traditional football powerhouse has added to its basketball footprint in recent years.
"My dad was with me on the visit and feels that this is a great decision for me," Olajuwon said. "I also leaned on my older brother, who's been through the process and told me not to think only about basketball, but to think long-term."
At 6-foot-5 and 170 pounds, Olajuwon ranked No. 57 in the SC Next 100 for next year. He played on the Nike EYBL circuit this past spring and summer, averaging 12.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.6 assists over the course of 20 games.
Olajuwon is efficient on both ends of the floor. He's able to be an outstanding defender and knows how to space the floor. The guard position is a natural fit for him. He is the first commitment for SMU in the 2027 class.
His father, Hakeem, was a 12-time NBA All-Star and one of the best centers in the history of basketball. Abdul-Malik's brother, Aziz, will be a freshman at Stanford this season.
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