Shane Beamer's South Carolina convinces 4-star WR Malik Clark to flip his commitment from Florida State 

By Aman Sharma

Modified Oct 05, 2024 18:23 GMT

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Shane Beamer's South Carolina has completed the flip of 4-star wide receiver Malik Clark from Florida State. The Gamecocks' persistence paid off after Clark, who had originally committed to FSU in July, announced his decision to decommit and pledge to South Carolina.

Even after committing to the Seminoles, Clark kept South Carolina in the back of his mind. He mentioned how WR coach Mike Furrey, head coach Shane Beamer, and director of recruiting Darren Uscher maintained regular contact throughout the process.

As Clark observed the divergent paths of the two programs early in their 2024 seasons, with South Carolina showing promise and FSU struggling at 1-4, he ultimately chose to stay closer to home.

“They kept recruiting me, they made sure I felt the love from the program and I have committed to South Carolina,” Clark shared with On3.

Clark had visited South Carolina multiple times, including games against Akron and Ole Miss, where the fan base and program atmosphere made a lasting impression.

“South Carolina has always been a great fit for me, but now I see it’s unfinished business in the state to be handled," he said. "I like everything about South Carolina. The love from the program, the coaching staff and how the fans can’t wait to get on field are all things that stand out to me. Those are reasons I committed.”

Florida State, which entered the season ranked No. 10 in the AP Poll, has experienced significant losses in recruiting. Alongside Clark, it has also seen decommitments from four-star prospects Myron Charles and Javion Hilson.

Malik Clark joins South Carolina's growing WR class after flipping from Florida State

Following his visit to South Carolina for the Akron game, Clark solidified his commitment to the Gamecocks. Now part of a fast-rising 2025 wide receiver class, Clark brings exceptional speed, having clocked a sub-4.4 40-yard dash in high school.

With Clark and fellow four-star Jordon Gidron committed, attention now shifts to whether Clark can influence in-state WR Donovan Murph to join South Carolina as well. Speaking to Rivals, Clark expressed his excitement about staying home, saying:

"Let's bring this state back."

Clark highlighted the pivotal roles of Beamer and WR coach Mike Furrey in his recruitment, noting their consistent support.

“Coach Beamer was one the first head coaches to come see me, which meant a lot, and it still does. Coach Furrey has always been here for me and he keeps the energy very positive.

Now eager to play in Williams-Brice Stadium, Clark hopes to lead South Carolina to SEC glory and return them to the national stage.

“Now I get to stay home. It means a lot to me and to my family to play in front of them and help the state get an SEC title and to get into the national conversations again.”

As a Junior, Clark won the Upper State title in the 100-meter dash. Last season, he recorded 46 receptions for 800 yards and nine touchdowns, and this season, MaxPreps reports he has already accumulated 31 receptions for 375 yards and three TDs through five games at Rock Hill High School.