Malik Monk’s Rise: From Kentucky Phenom to NBA Star—Sacramento Kings Guard Still Writing His Story After Being Drafted 11th Overall in 2017

Malik Ahmad Monk’s journey from high school sensation to a reliable NBA scorer is the kind of story that basketball fans love to follow. Born on February 4, 1998, in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Monk grew up with the game embedded in his DNA. His older brother, Marcus Monk, was a dual-sport athlete, playing football and basketball at Arkansas and even spending time in the NFL. That athletic pedigree, combined with Monk’s raw talent and tireless work ethic, began to blossom early in his life. At Bentonville High School, Monk quickly became a name to watch in national recruiting circles. His leaping ability, lightning-quick first step, and deadly three-point shot made him one of the most feared guards in the country. He averaged over 28 points per game as a senior and was named to the prestigious McDonald’s All-American Game and Jordan Brand Classic, cementing his place among the nation’s elite prospects.

But it wasn’t just his stats or accolades that caught the attention of scouts—it was the flair with which he played. Monk had a scoring style that drew oohs and aahs from packed gyms across Arkansas and beyond. Whether it was throwing down thunderous dunks in transition or knocking down contested threes with a defender draped all over him, Monk made the game look effortless. When the time came to choose a college, Monk made waves by selecting the University of Kentucky, turning down offers from Arkansas and several other major programs. It was a controversial decision locally, but for Monk, it was a basketball decision. He wanted to play for a powerhouse program under a coach known for getting guards to the NBA. That coach, of course, was John Calipari.

Monk’s time at Kentucky was brief but unforgettable. During the 2016–2017 season, he averaged 19.8 points per game, led the Wildcats to the SEC Championship, and became known nationally for his ability to take over games in the blink of an eye. Perhaps no game encapsulates Monk’s college career better than his 47-point explosion against North Carolina in December 2016. In a back-and-forth thriller that ended in a 103–100 Kentucky win, Monk set a school record for points by a freshman and reminded the basketball world why he was considered a lottery talent. His ability to hit shots from anywhere on the court, including a game-winning three in that classic, made him an instant legend in Lexington.

After earning consensus second-team All-American honors and winning SEC Freshman of the Year, Monk declared for the 2017 NBA Draft. There was no question he was ready for the next level. Scouts saw in him the kind of explosive scorer who could swing games at the highest level. On June 22, 2017, Monk’s NBA dream came true when the Charlotte Hornets selected him with the 11th overall pick in the draft. It was a proud moment not just for Monk, but for the entire state of Arkansas and the Kentucky faithful who had watched him light up the college game. The expectations were sky-high, and while Monk showed flashes of brilliance in Charlotte, his early NBA years were a rollercoaster.

Injuries and inconsistent playing time plagued his first few seasons. At times, he seemed caught in a system that didn’t fully utilize his skill set. Though he showed improvement year by year—particularly in his shooting and playmaking—the explosive outbursts that had defined his high school and college careers were fewer and further between. There were questions about his maturity, and even a suspension for violating the NBA’s anti-drug policy in 2020 cast a shadow over his future. Still, Monk never let go of his belief in himself. He continued to work, stayed in shape, and waited for his next opportunity.

That opportunity came in the form of a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers in the summer of 2021. It was a low-risk move for the Lakers and a fresh start for Monk. Playing alongside LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook, Monk thrived. In the 2021–2022 season, he averaged a career-best 13.8 points per game, shot nearly 40% from three-point range, and became one of the Lakers’ most consistent and dynamic offensive threats. For the first time since entering the league, Monk looked fully comfortable and confident. He attacked defenders with the same swagger he had at Kentucky, throwing down highlight-reel dunks and hitting clutch shots.

But perhaps more importantly, he started to show he could be more than just a scorer. Monk improved his defense, made better decisions with the ball, and took pride in contributing in ways that didn’t always show up on the stat sheet. It was clear to anyone watching that Monk had matured—not just as a player, but as a professional. Despite the Lakers’ overall struggles that season, Monk’s stock was soaring. When free agency rolled around in 2022, the Sacramento Kings saw in Monk a piece that could help take them to the next level. They signed him to a two-year, \$19 million deal, betting that his best basketball was still ahead of him. That bet paid off.

In Sacramento, Monk found both opportunity and stability. Teaming up with his former Kentucky teammate De’Aaron Fox, Monk became a key contributor on a Kings squad that ended the longest playoff drought in NBA history. His scoring, energy, and fearless shot-making were instrumental in Sacramento’s return to relevance. Whether starting or coming off the bench, Monk gave the Kings a punch they had sorely lacked. His play during the 2022–2023 season and beyond continued to validate what scouts had believed when he was coming out of college: that Malik Monk, when put in the right environment and given the right role, could be a star.

Off the court, Monk has also grown into a respected voice in the locker room and a mentor for younger players. He speaks openly about his struggles, the lessons he’s learned, and the importance of perseverance. Monk’s path hasn’t been without its obstacles, but his resilience has become a defining trait. What separates Monk from many of his peers is his ability to adapt. He has taken the long route to becoming the player many thought he would be when he was drafted. But in doing so, he’s developed a deeper understanding of the game, learned the value of patience, and embraced the journey over the destination.

The Kings have made it clear they view Monk as part of their core moving forward. With a dynamic backcourt and a young, talented roster, Sacramento is poised to remain competitive in the Western Conference for years to come. Monk’s role—as a scorer, creator, and leader—will be central to that success. And for Monk, the story is far from over. Now entering his prime, he still has plenty of room to grow. There’s every reason to believe he can continue ascending—whether as a Sixth Man of the Year candidate, a starter, or even an All-Star down the line.

His game has matured, but the excitement he brings every time he touches the ball remains. Fans love him for his fearless approach, his clutch shooting, and his show-stopping athleticism. Coaches love him for his work ethic and willingness to improve. Teammates love him for his positive energy and unselfishness. Malik Monk may have taken a few detours on his way to NBA stardom, but he never lost sight of his destination. From a five-star recruit to a college sensation, from a rocky start in Charlotte to a breakout in LA, and now a vital piece of a rising Sacramento team, Monk’s story is a testament to growth, resilience, and the power of staying true to your passion.

There’s a fire in Monk that doesn’t flicker—it only burns hotter with each challenge. And as the NBA world continues to take notice, one thing is certain: Malik Monk isn’t done yet. He’s still writing his story, one electrifying moment at a time.