Five-star forward Malik Reneau became the fourth member of Indiana’s 2022 recruiting class when he announced his pledge to the Hoosiers on Monday afternoon.
Inside the Hall spoke with the 6-foot-7 forward about his decision to commit to the Hoosiers and a full transcript of our Q & A is available below:
What led you to being comfortable in making this decision now?
“Definitely the coaching staff and the players. It was just easy to talk to the coaches. The gameplan they have for me… it was just a no-brainer to come to Bloomington and to Indiana.”
What about the relationship that Indiana built with you back in the summer and fall that allowed them to pick things back up now and get in the mix when you reopened your recruitment?
“We always had a good relationship. Me, coach (Kenya) Hunter, coach (Mike) Woodson. It was just bad timing (the first time). They came in pretty late, but we always kept that relationship together. And they wanted to get me on a visit last time around, but I was already pretty locked in with the Florida coaching staff. But now that I reopened and took this visit, it was a clear no-brainer. I should have taken the visit the first time.”
What was it about the visit that stood out and was there anything that surprised you?
“It was definitely the style of play that coach Woodson showed me. And the fans are just insane all over Bloomington. They love their basketball. They’re always greeting the players. It was just a great feeling knowing that the fans are behind you.”
What stands out about Coach Woodson?
“He’s just a great guy. He does a lot for his team. Does a lot of bonding with the team. That’s good for chemistry. With Coach Woodson, we just had a real talk and it was a no-brainer. He is going to put me in the best position for my career. I believe that.”
How influential was Jalen (Hood-Schifino) in the process? How comfortable are you knowing that he’ll be at Indiana with you?
“Me and Fino,…