Story's Addition Official

Bloomington – The addition of Malik Story to the Hoosiers’ 2009 roster is official.

IU announced the 6-5 forward/guard from Los Angeles’ Artesia H.S. has signed with IU and will enroll in the fall. Story is one of 11 new faces who will be on the Hoosier roster in the fall, seven of which have announced their intentions to play in Bloomington since new IU Coach Tom Crean took over two months ago.

Story averaged 13.0 points as a sophomore and 14.7 points and a junior at Artesia H.S., helping his prep team to a 66-3 combined record and back-to-back state championships. He transferred to Oak Hill Academy before the start of his senior season, but then departed before the start of the basketball season and didn’t play as a senior.

“To get someone of Malik’s ability this late in the year is really exciting for all of us,” Crean said in a prepares statement. “He is a proven winner who knows how to win championships, and has improved a great deal over the last few years.”

Story originally verbally committed to USC as a sophomore, but re-opened his recruitment this spring. After attending IU’s Elite Camp in June he announced his intentions to play for the Hoosiers.

“Malik was off the radar for some time because of his early commitment, but nonetheless, he has always proven to be someone that plays at a high level, that wins, and that gets better,” Crean said.

Story figures to be a big part of the Hoosiers’ rebuilding project beginning this fall. Like another late signee – 6’4”, 185-pound Nick Williams – Story has the sort of versatility that allows him to play both inside and on the perimeter. With an IU roster that will include only three scholarship players taller than 6’5”, Story will be counted on to do a little bit of everything.

"We are very fortunate to have him coming to Indiana with the ability to step in and help contribute in our program right away," Crean said. "He has built his range and his ability to get to the rim, and we look for to helping him improve in those areas. We love his strength, and we love the fact that he loves the game and wants to improve. It is a pleasure to have him."