Khaman Maluach is a South Sudanese basketball player currently playing as a freshman center for the Duke Blue Devils in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Born on September 14, 2006, in Rumbek, South Sudan, Maluach stands 7 feet 2 inches tall and weighs 250 pounds.
Early Life and Career: Maluach spent his early years in Uganda as a refugee before moving to Senegal to join the NBA Academy Africa. He began his professional career with Cobra Sport in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) in 2022, later playing for AS Douanes in 2023 and the City Oilers in 2024. In the 2024 BAL season, he led the league in rebounding, averaging 13.5 boards per game.
College Career at Duke: Maluach committed to Duke University in March 2024, choosing the Blue Devils over other top programs like UCLA, Kentucky, and Kansas. He cited Zion Williamson’s impact as a factor in his decision. In his freshman season, Maluach has made significant contributions, averaging 8.4 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 0.5 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 70.2%.
International Play: At 16, Maluach debuted with the South Sudan national team during the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, becoming the third-youngest player in tournament history. His performance helped South Sudan secure their first Olympic appearance in the 2024 Paris Games.
NBA Prospects: Maluach’s impressive blend of size, athleticism, and skill has attracted NBA attention. Recent mock drafts project him as a potential first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, with the Houston Rockets considering him at the 14th overall spot. The Philadelphia 76ers have also expressed interest, viewing him as a valuable asset to their future roster.
For a closer look at Maluach’s playing style and highlights, you can watch the following video: