The Jewish Link and Drink Up would like to recognize Mikey Malka as this week’s Sportstar of the Week. The Ben Porat Yosef sixth grader is considered by many of his peers as one of the best two-way players his age, amongst all the yeshiva schools in Bergen County. When asked about Malk, CMEK coach Chad Mekles told The Jewish Link, “Mikey completed the rare trifecta and was one of very few players to win an AAU League championship in all three school seasons: fall-CMEK 6, winter-CMEK 5 and spring-CMEK 5. Mikey, who started every game for CMEK 5 and CMEK 6 in all three championship seasons, had a cumulative record of 30-1. In the fall while playing a year up for CMEK 6, he led the team in steals while contributing double figures in scoring in most games. In the winter and spring while playing for CMEK 5, Mikey wreaked havoc on both ends of the court, frequently stuffing the stat sheet in every category. He regularly was assigned to shut-down the opponent’s best player, while also having the responsibility of facilitating the offense.”

Mikey, congrats on the championships and for being recognized as this week’s Sportstar of the Week! Who is your role model and why?

My father, because he encouraged me to work hard and follow my passion of basketball.

What is your favorite sport?

Basketball because I love the game for many different reasons.

What is your pregame routine?

Listening to music, and warming up to prepare for the game.

What is your greatest sports accomplishment?

Winning three different Hoop Heaven championships this past year—two for CMEK 5 and one for CMEK 6.

Who is your favorite athlete and why?

Jason Tatum, because of his style of play and his scoring abilities.

What is your favorite sports memory?

Hitting a game winning 3 for my CMEK 4 team in the championship last year.

What is your earliest sports memory?

Getting a picture with Shaquille O’Neal at 2 years old and he literally held me with his thumb! He’s so big!

What is your favorite thing to do when you are not playing sports?

Hanging out with friends, playing Blooket, fishing and relaxing.

What is the best thing about being a Sportstar?

Being privileged to be part of the group of the other Sportstars!

Please send nominees for an upcoming Drink Up Jewish Link Sportstar of the Week to [email protected].