Khaman Maluach, a sharpshooting 7 footer and one of the best prospects from South Sudan has been taken by the Phoenix Suns. He was selected first overall in the 2025 NBA Draft. Yet this milestone moment is a tremendous success story for Maluach. It is a culmination of the rising power and influence of African basketball on the global stage.
Maluach’s journey started in neighboring Uganda. Though Ahmed was new to the sport at 13, he found his love for basketball at a school break camp run by former NBA All-Star Luol Deng. In doing so, he committed to the sport by walking 45 minutes to the nearest outdoor basketball court to practice. There, he found his craft honed again and again. His commitment paid off, leading him to the NBA Academy Africa, which provided him with top-notch facilities and opportunities to compete internationally.
On the court, Maluach was an immediate impact player during his time at Duke University. He went on to start every one of his 39 games as a freshman, setting a Duke record. His standout performance led to him being named to the 2025 Atlantic Coast Conference All-Freshman Team. He averaged an absurd 17.5 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game over the entire season. Beyond that, he stole the show on the international stage too at the 2024 Hoop Summit, where he represented South Sudan with pride.
“I just had emotions in the moment,” – Khaman Maluach
Maluach’s standout play—epitomized by his blitzing ballharassing style—created a widespread buzz that swept through Duke’s men’s basketball program. He took on a minimalistic role leading into the 2024 Paris Olympics, averaging only two points over 13 minutes in three appearances. Even so, his possibilities came through beautifully. First, in 2014, he put on a memorable performance with the Ugandan City Oilers. He proved it by averaging nearly 19 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists over the course of six games.
Acknowledged as one of the most gifted players from an early age, Maluach was awarded the 2023 Africa Basketball Without Borders Most Valuable Player. This impressive outlet pass was perhaps the highlight of his defense. It further highlighted his role as a pathfinder and pioneer for African players in the global basketball sphere.
Maluach said he is thankful for all the opportunities he’s been given. He sounds thrilled to be with the Suns and looking forward to learning from grizzled veterans, such as Devin Booker. Their very first meetings had made a great impact on him.
“We didn’t really have a long conversation because he had somewhere to go. But just watching him do all that he did inspires me and shows me that I have to do that, too,” – Khaman Maluach
The young athlete is convinced that African basketball is enjoying a bright period of expansion. In the short term, they expect that platforms such as the Basketball Africa League (BAL) will be central supports for tomorrow’s influx of players. He also said facing older and stronger players during his professional debut has already enhanced his development. This experience has really fast-tracked his development as an athlete.
“The BAL accelerated my game so fast because now I’m playing with older guys, professional guys, guys who are stronger than me and it was my first time playing professional basketball,” – Khaman Maluach
Reflecting on his inspiring journey, Maluach spoke about maintaining discipline and how best to hold themselves accountable. He’s dedicated to continuous improvement and with an eye always on his ultimate goal, he continues to stay focused on the work.
“How am I going to get better today so that I can reach my big goal? What do I need to do to get better? And am I doing the right thing? Am I holding myself accountable?” – Khaman Maluach
His story continues to serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes all across the world. Perhaps more importantly, it has become a powerful symbol of hope and determination for countless others. Mark Tatum, NBA Deputy Commissioner, praised Maluach for paving the way for future generations.
“Khaman’s story is going to inspire men and women basketball players on the Continent,” – Mark Tatum
Maluach starts a new journey with the Phoenix Suns. With poetry and vulnerability, he looks back and welcomes that struggle—which made him the man he has become today.
“I’m just excited and ready to go to work. I’m flashing back to the tough moments I had. The moments where I had to push myself,” – Khaman Maluach
Leave a Reply