Team USA is gearing up for the 2024 Paris Olympics with a pre-Olympics showcase tour, taking on South Sudan in Abu Dhabi this Saturday. South Sudan, making its debut in Olympic basketball, is coached by former NBA player Royal Ivey and features a roster of current and former NBA players like Carlik Jones, Marial Shayok, Wenyen Gabriel, Peter Jok, and JT Thor. Keep an eye out for 7-2 center Khaman Maluach, a rising star who will be joining the Duke Blue Devils next season alongside Cooper Flagg.
Who is Khaman Maluach?
Khaman Maluach, a 17-year-old from South Sudan, is a standout prospect from the NBA Academy Africa. His journey to basketball stardom began when NBA scouts discovered him in Uganda, where his family had fled from war-torn Sudan. Despite starting basketball at a late age, Maluach’s skills and work ethic have caught the attention of many, drawing inspiration from players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Joel Embiid, and Kevin Durant.
Maluach’s versatility and defensive prowess make him a promising prospect for the future, with a projected lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. His commitment to Duke University adds another dimension to the Blue Devils’ star-studded roster for the upcoming season.
Khaman Maluach recruiting
As a five-star recruit and the top-ranked center in the class of 2025, Maluach had his pick of high-major schools before choosing Duke. Joining forces with other top recruits like Cooper Flagg and Isaiah Evans, Maluach is poised to make a significant impact in college basketball.
Khaman Maluach pronunciation
For those wondering, Khaman Maluach’s name is pronounced “Kah-mahn Mah-lu-watch,” as confirmed by the man himself at the 2023 G League Winter Showcase.