The United States is ready to play against South Sudan in Abu Dhabi, going face to face with a country that is going to make its first appearance at the Olympics for basketball.
South Sudan’s basketball program, is coached by former NBA player Royal Ivey, has rapidly developed. Ivey has got together a team featuring several current and former NBA talents, including Carlik Jones, Marial Shayok, Wenyen Gabriel, Peter Jok and JT Thor.
But the spotlight shines on a rising star: 7-foot-2 center Khaman Maluach, who has been playing for South Sudan during the exhibition games leading up to the Olympics.
At just 17 years old, Maluach is committed to Duke University and will join forces with USA Select Team standout Cooper Flagg, forming a fierce frontcourt duo in Durham next season.
Who is Khaman Maluach?
Khaman Maluach is a 17-year-old from South Sudan, who stands out not only because of his height but also due to his amazing journey. The 7-foot-2 prospect comes from NBA Academy Africa, but his path to where he is now is much more difficult than that.
Contradictory to what one might expect from a 7-foot teenager who began serious training just a few years ago, Maluach is not overly new. He has fluid mobility and smooth footwork.
His defensive prowess is particularly notable; he plays with intensity in the paint and excels as a rim protector. Also, he is comfortable handling the ball, a competent passer, and, impressively, a capable shooter.
Maluach’s profile shows the picture of a naturally gifted athlete, explaining why he quickly drew attention as a flourishing talent. At just 14, he became the youngest player to enroll at an NBA Academy school, joining the ranks of NBA Academy alumni like Josh Giddey, Bennedict Mathurin, and Dyson Daniels.
Last summer, Maluach joined South Sudan’s FIBA World Cup team, making history as the third-youngest player to compete in the tournament at 16. Now, at 17, he is set to represent his country on the Olympic stage and is projected to be a lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Khaman Maluach’s Recruitment Journey
Khaman Maluach, a five-star recruit, is ranked as the No. 4 player and the top center in the class of 2025 by 247 Sports. He got offers from top-tier schools such as UCLA, Kentucky, and Kansas but chose to play for Duke.
He is one of three five-star recruits in Duke’s No. 1-ranked class for the 2025 season, alongside Cooper Flagg and Isaiah Evans, the latter being a five-star, No. 13-ranked small forward. Together, they are expected to form one of the most potent frontcourts in college basketball.
Maluach’s Development and Future Prospects
Maluach’s rise from a war-stricken Sudan to the international basketball scene is a proof to his flexibility and talent. His swift development in just a few years shows his natural aptitude and determination.
Standing at 7-2 with a versatile skill set, he is a defensive stalwart with significant offensive potential, making him an invaluable asset on the court.
His commitment to Duke reflects his growing reputation in the basketball world. Teaming up with Cooper Flagg and Isaiah Evans at Duke, Maluach is poised to be a critical player in one of the most formidable frontcourts in college basketball history.
His decision to choose Duke over other top programs like UCLA, Kentucky, and Kansas underscores his strategic approach to his development.
As he gets ready for the 2024 Paris Olympics, Maluach’s role in the South Sudan team will be important. Competing on such a crucial stage at a young age will further sharp his skills and prepare him for college basketball and beyond. His Olympic performance will be closely monitored by scouts and fans, eager to see how he handles the pressure and competition.
Conclusion
Khaman Maluach’s story is one of hard work, talent, and ambition. From fleeing conflict in Sudan to emerging as a rising basketball star, Maluach flexibility and excellence is the perfect example.
His journey shows the changes in power of sports and the opportunities it provides for those who dare to dream. As he goes into the Olympic stage and later joins Duke, the world will be watching this young prodigy’s every move, anticipating the greatness that lies ahead.
Also read: Matas Buzelis: A Young and Versatile Basketball Player