Leaky Black

Black is an American guard who has navigated the NBA through two-way contracts after a decorated defensive career at North Carolina. Known for perimeter defense and versatility, he has appeared for both the Charlotte Hornets and Washington Wizards while maintaining a developmental role in the G League.

Born Rechon Malik Black on June 14, 1999, and raised in Concord, North Carolina, he committed to North Carolina as a high school sophomore under coach Roy Williams. After a shortened freshman season due to an ankle injury, he entered the starting lineup as a sophomore and became a fixture in the Tar Heels backcourt.

As a senior, Black earned ACC All-Defensive Team honors and was part of a starting lineup that led the eighth-seeded Tar Heels to an unexpected Final Four berth in the 2022 NCAA tournament. In the semifinal against Duke, he held freshman AJ Griffin to 1-of-7 shooting and six points, a defensive performance that helped secure the victory.

After going undrafted in the 2023 NBA draft, Black signed a two-way contract with the Charlotte Hornets on July 19, 2023. He made 26 appearances, including three starts, averaging 2.7 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. The Hornets waived him on August 1, 2024. He joined the Capital City Go-Go in October 2024 and later signed a two-way contract with Washington on February 21, 2026.

Black is a defensive-minded guard with length and versatility on the perimeter. His strengths include on-ball defense, fighting through screens, and guarding multiple positions. Offensively, he operates as a connector, moving the ball and making timely cuts rather than creating off the dribble. He fits best as a complementary backcourt piece who defends, spaces the floor, and makes winning plays.

Black has been open about his struggles with anxiety and the coping strategies that have helped him manage it. He earned his nickname from his middle name, Malik, given by his grandmother.