Earlier last week, we were able to tune in to Fork Union Military Academy's game vs. Blue Ridge, which presented us a chance to watch a few old names that we have seen on multiple occasions but also a chance to learn a few new ones.
One player that we got a chance to watch once before early last year but should be a name to really keep an eye on is 2021 6'8 Anouar Mellouk.
Back at the #PhenomHargrave in February of 2020, Patrick O'Brien had this to say:
'Mellouk wasn't the leading scorer but there were a lot of things that you have to like as he continues to develop his feel for the game. A 6'8 prospect that moves well, has a fantastic soft touch on the floor, and the ability to step out for a mid-range shot. With his long arms, he is showed that he can be an effective two-way player and still room to grow.'
We then got a chance to watch him again against Blue Ridge, where he was extremely impressive, scoring 24 points and showing his full arsenal offensively.
'Mellouk was the player of the game in this one, as he finished with 24 points, going 10-of-13 from the floor and 4-of-5 from three. He also added in four rebounds, a steal, and a block. Mellouk showcased a terrific ability to knock down shots with a smooth, confident stroke but also was able to attack the paint. He brings a ton of versatility to the floor and scored from multiple areas, as he did a tremendous job in creating space to get his shot off. Highly impressed with what he showed and more college coaches should look at his game.'
After two outstanding performances, we had to learn more about this young man who starts his second year of being in the US, coming from the Netherlands. Now being in his second season at Fork Union, Mellouk believes that he has a good team and that he/his team can achieve a lot of great things this year. He also wants to give everyone a glimpse of how he can operate on the floor, as the versatile prospect can operate in multiple ways.
'I'm an athletic wing with a consistent jump shot,' he told Phenom Hoops. 'I learned to get my teammates involved a lot more and really enjoy making the right play. I run the floor very well in transition to get easy dunks at the rim or just finishes in general. I love to lock up my opponent and make the right defensive play.'
Mellouk would also say that his ability to stretch the floor with his outside game, much like he showed against Blue Ridge, is a strong point as well.
With his size and skill set, he could be in for a jump with his recruitment, already holding an offer from Central Michigan. But others are expressing interest his way.
'Central Michigan is a great school,' he said. 'I haven't had a chance to visit yet but I'm a fan of cold weather, so I know I'd love the environment. They've been very active with letters and emails. The coaches and I developed a good relationship. Schools from the ACC, Big 12, and Big 10 (have also been showing interest as well).
Mellouk is a name many may not know of quite yet but with more viewings of him this season, he could quickly be a prospect on the rise nationally and with coaches around the country.