North Lenoir's Malik Dixon is heading to the University of Mount Olive to play baseball, committing Friday. Photo by William ‘Bud’ Hardy / Neuse News

By Junious Smith III

LA GRANGE — Malik Dixon worked to make an impact at North Lenoir and hopes to do the same in college.

The Hawks infielder committed to the University of Mount Olive Friday as a preferred walk-on. Dixon played a significant role since being called up to the varsity roster as a sophomore, helping the team finish 13-5 with a fourth-round trip to the NCHSAA 2A state playoffs. Over the next two seasons, the Hawks went 37-13, including a Regionals appearance last year.

"He's been a big part of our middle infield and have made tremendous plays on defense," North Lenoir coach Jackson Massey said. "He also gave us a big spark on offense, finding a way to get on base and help us put runs on the board. In the playoffs last year, it seemed like he got a hit or walk every time he was up to bat, getting clutch RBIs. He's a great player and we're thankful for his contributions here at North Lenoir."

Dixon batted better than .300 all three seasons, including .378 in 2019. Dixon, who plans to study business management at UMO, said the school enticed him in several key facets.

"I was drawn in by the program, which is one of the top-ranked Division II teams in the country," Dixon said. "When I visited the campus, I thought it was a perfect fit academically, socially and athletically, so I felt this was the right decision."

Dixon will also have a chance to play with a former teammate, Reed Parris, who was recently named to the Conference Carolinas All-Conference second team.

"I talked to Reed and he told me how much he liked the coaches and program," Dixon said. "He said it's a school that helps you get better at the game, and it made my decision even easier."

Dixon said UMO and North Lenoir have similarities, especially in terms of success, which will help make his transition easier.

"Both places have a winning tradition, not just because of talented players but buying into the team-first mindset," Dixon said. "We prepared well in practice at North Lenoir and we did whatever we could to win games."