Introduction
With the 10th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Houston Rockets selected Khaman Maluach—soon to play for the Phoenix Suns—a 7-foot-2 center from Duke and South Sudan. Maluach becomes the highest-drafted African from NBA Academy Africa, declaring: “I’m here representing the whole continent of Africa.”
Early Life: From Refugee Camp to Basketball Academy
Born on September 14, 2006, in Rumbek, South Sudan, Maluach and his family fled to Uganda in 2013 amid civil war. They settled near Kampala, where a chance encounter with a motorcycle taxi driver nudged him toward basketball at age 13. His journey took off when he attended a basketball camp led by NBA legend Luol Deng in 2019 .
Growth at NBA Academy Africa and in BAL
In 2021, Maluach joined the NBA Academy Africa in Senegal, refining his skills and participating in the BAL Elevate Program. He played for Cobra Sport, AS Douanes, and Uganda’s City Oilers, dominating in rebounds and blocks—averaging 17.8 points and a league-leading 13.5 rebounds in 2024 —earning MVP honors and international recognition.
Duke Blue Devils and Draft Preparation
Maluach committed to Duke for the 2024–25 season, where he started all 39 games. He averaged 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game, shooting an impressive 71% from the field . His athleticism, 7-foot-6 wingspan, and 9-foot-8 standing reach marked him as a top lottery talent .
NBA Draft Night & Historic Selection
At 18, Maluach became emotional upon hearing his name at Barclays Center. NBA commissioner Adam Silver announced his selection at No. 10 by Houston—his rights already traded to the Phoenix Suns in a Kevin Durant deal . The Suns added a rim protector to rebuild their defense, signaling a strategic shift .
Challenges Ahead: Immigration & Visa Hurdles
Maluach’s journey isn’t without obstacles. A Trump-era policy revoked visas for South Sudanese nationals, complicating his transition from an F-1 student visa to a P‑1 sports visa . NBA and Duke officials are actively assisting to ensure he can join his new team.
What Scouts and Fans See
- Strengths: Elite shot-blocker, defensive anchor, athletic rolls to the rim with a developing mid-range jumper .
- Needs work: Offensive polish, consistent shooting, playmaking, and avoiding foul trouble .
- Prospect ranking: Top-10 lottery pick with blue-chip upside thanks to NBA Academy pipeline .
African & National Team Milestones
At age 16, Maluach was the youngest player at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, and he helped South Sudan qualify for the Paris Olympics—the first African nation to do so via direct qualification. He also faced Team USA in Olympic and friendly matchups, showcasing his talent against elite competition .
Conclusion
Khaman Maluach’s rise—from refugee camps to the NBA—symbolizes hope, perseverance, and the growing impact of African players in basketball. As he embarks on his career with the Phoenix Suns, his presence inspires the next generation across the continent and beyond: big dreams, relentless work, and quiet defiance against the odds.
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