South Sudanese basketball prospect Khaman Maluach was selected 10th overall in the 2025 NBA draft Wednesday night, becoming the highest-drafted African-born player in league history.
The 18-year-old center was chosen by the Houston Rockets but will be traded to the Phoenix Suns as part of a deal for superstar Kevin Durant.
Born in Rumbek, South Sudan, in 2006, Maluach grew up near Kawempe, Uganda, after his family fled conflict. His basketball journey began unexpectedly at 14 when a motorcyclist encouraged him to try the sport.
He eventually joined the NBA Academy Africa in Senegal, where he quickly stood out as a top prospect. By 16, Maluach had committed to Duke University and earned a spot on South Sudan’s national team, competing at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Standing 7-foot-2, Maluach averaged 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game in his lone season with the Blue Devils, shooting 71.2% from the field and 76.6% from the free-throw line.
On draft night, he wore a custom suit lined with the flags of South Sudan and Uganda.
“Being delusional about my dreams, believing I’d make it to the NBA one day — and now I’m here,” Maluach said, fighting back tears. “I’m representing the entire continent. Leaving Africa, I had the whole continent on my back, giving hope to the next generation.”
Earlier this year, Maluach’s U.S. future was in doubt due to a Trump-era policy that threatened visas for South Sudanese nationals. But his draft selection grants him eligibility for a P1 visa, clearing the way for his professional career.
“To get a young talent like him, from a great program like Duke, is huge,” said Suns general manager Brian Gregory. “He’s versatile, brings a major defensive presence, and we needed rim protection after ranking 27th last season.”