Rising Rock Hill receiver recruit likes USC’s message. Clemson showing new interest

Wide receiver Malik Clark of Rock Hill High School is the latest major talent to come out of Football City USA.

The Class of 2025 speedster caught 46 passes for 800 yards and nine touchdowns last season. He has garnered nearly scholarship 30 offers so far. South Carolina is on board with Clark (6-1, 170), while Clemson is becoming more interested.

“I’m really just an open book right now,” Clark said. “I’m looking for a competitive school with the opportunity to go play and get a good education.”

USC has been very strong on Clark for a long time. He was there last spring for a visit, last summer for a seven-on-seven event, took in a pair of games last season and he was in Columbia for the Jan. 20 junior day for recruits. He also drew a visit from head coach Shane Beamer at his school in January, and he enjoys communicating with the Gamecocks’ head man.

“It doesn’t feel like I’m talking to a big-time coach. Just feels like you’re talking to a normal coach,” Clark said. “I like the coaching staff. I like the people who are around at South Carolina off the field. I like the school. They make me feel like they really want me. I like the family feel and I like the organization.”

Clark has also gotten to know new USC receivers coach James Coley.

“We talk almost every day,” Clark said. “He told me that I was his first offer at South Carolina and told me I’m a special guy. He said he likes how polished I am as a receiver and how I get in and out of my breaks. He feels he can help me elevate my game.”

Clemson is starting to show more interest in Clark. He’s had contact with receivers coach Tyler Grisham, and he plans to attend the Tigers’ next junior day March 9.

“It’s kind of new. We’re just getting things started, figuring it out,” Clark said. “I’ve been going to their camps for the last two years. Their wide receivers coach reached out personally about a month ago.”

Clark also wants to visit Tennessee and Indiana this spring. He hasn’t set any official visits but said USC will be one of those stops.

Among Clark’s other offers are Nebraska, Maryland, Coastal Carolina, East Carolina, Duke, Kentucky, Vanderbilt, Virginia, Virginia Tech, North Carolina, N.C. State, West Virginia and Cincinnati.