Abdul-Malik Olajuwon, son of NBA Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon, has committed to play college basketball at Southern Methodist University (SMU). The 6-foot-5 guard, a prospect in the 2027 class, announced his decision after visiting the Dallas-based campus.
Olajuwon selected the Mustangs over offers from 11 other programs, including Minnesota, Kansas State, Virginia Tech, Auburn, Mississippi State, TCU, Texas Tech, Wake Forest, West Virginia, and UNLV. He cited the team's system and coaching staff as key factors in his decision.
"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."
Enfield, who is entering his third season as SMU's head coach, has guided the Mustangs to a 44-25 record. Olajuwon described his future coach as "laid-back but intense," adding that "When he talks, the gym becomes silent. Everyone listens to him and respects him."
Olajuwon currently plays for IMG Academy in Florida. He is ranked as the No. 66 prospect in the 2027 class by 247Sports. During his time in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League, he averaged 12.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game.
His father, Hakeem Olajuwon, is a two-time NBA champion and a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Abdul-Malik noted that his father supported his decision and that he also consulted his older brother about the long-term considerations beyond basketball.
SMU is coming off a 20-14 season that saw the team make its first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2017, ultimately losing in the First Four. Abdul-Malik Olajuwon's commitment signals a potential boost for the Mustangs' program in the coming years.