Khaman Maluach’s journey to basketball stardom began unexpectedly. Born in South Sudan and growing up as a refugee in neighboring Uganda, Maluach’s life changed in 2019 when a motorcyclist noticed his extraordinary height and suggested he try basketball. This random encounter set Maluach on a path that would lead him to national and international recognition.
Maluach’s inspiration to pursue basketball further came from watching highlights of Giannis Antetokounmpo. Seeing Giannis’s journey from humble beginnings to NBA stardom motivated Maluach to strive for greatness. In 2021, Maluach was invited to live and train at the NBA Academy in Senegal, where he focused on skill development. He competed for AS Douanes in the Basketball Africa League Championship and won the Basketball Without Borders MVP.
Maluach also represented South Sudan at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, becoming the third-youngest player ever to compete in the tournament. His team emerged as the number one ranked team in Africa, securing a spot in the 2024 Olympics.
On March 6, 2024, Maluach committed to Duke, choosing the prestigious program over UCLA, Kentucky, and Kansas. Ranked as the third-best prospect in the 2025 NBA draft by ESPN, his decision to join Duke was a significant milestone in his career. At the City Oilers for the Ugandan National Basketball League, Maluach averaged an impressive 17.8 points, 13.5 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 0.7 steals, and 2.8 blocks per game, shooting 51.9% from the field and 23.5% from three-point range.
The 2024-25 Duke team, which opened as the favorite to win the national championship, will benefit from Maluach’s talents. Alongside other top recruits like Cooper Flagg, Maluach is expected to contribute significantly, even as a project player who might need to develop over the season. His experience in the Basketball Africa League, where he played against professionals, suggests he might be closer to a finished product than initially thought.
Maluach recently gained significant attention during South Sudan’s near-upset against Team USA in a Saturday exhibition game. The 7-foot-2, 250-pound five-star, a mere 17-year-old facing NBA greats galore, helped power South Sudan to a near-impossible win but ultimately fell short at 101-100.
In just 12 minutes of play, he scored 7 points, grabbed 3 rebounds, and blocked 1 shot, going 3-6 from the field and 1-1 from three-point range. He showcased his versatility and potential by breaking free for a dunk, burying a three-pointer over NBA champion Anthony Davis, and holding his own against some of the best players of the generation.
Maluach’s ambition extends beyond personal success. He aims to make sports a significant part of African culture and showcase the continent’s talent. He hopes to inspire and support other players from his young country, South Sudan.
Maluach’s positive attitude, supportive nature, and dedication to basketball have made him a beloved figure both on and off the court. His story is a testament to how a single moment can change the course of one’s life and inspire greatness.
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