Khaman Maluach, a former Duke basketball rookie center, has officially begun his NBA career after being selected with the 10th overall choice in the 2025 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets. Maluach’s draft rights will be transferred to the Phoenix Suns as part of the Kevin Durant trade to Houston, but his response to being picked will leave every Duke fan in tears.
“Me, being delusional about my dreams, believing in myself that I’m going to make it to the NBA one day, and now, here at the NBA Draft, just got drafted,” Maluach told ESPN’s Monica McNutt, tears streaming down his cheeks.
Maluach made sure to acknowledge his roots, paying tribute to his home country of South Sudan and emphasizing that he continues to carry his background with pride.
“I’m here representing the entire African continent,” he said. “Growing up in Africa, I felt the weight of the continent on my shoulders—bringing hope, inspiring young kids, and paving the way for the next generation of African basketball players.”
Remarkably, the 7’2″, 250-pound center only began playing basketball in 2019. Coming from the impoverished nation of South Sudan, opportunities were scarce. But after earning a chance to join the NBA Academy Africa, his trajectory changed. He later committed to Duke, where he showcased his exceptional athleticism for a player of his size. Maluach’s rare ability to guard all five positions, sprint the floor alongside guards, and serve as a dominant rim protector has made him a standout in this year’s draft class, ultimately leading to his selection at No. 10 overall.
He also gave a heartfelt thanks to his family back home, who stayed up into the early morning hours to witness his big night.
“I’m so grateful to them for the way they raised me—for shaping me into the man I am today and teaching me the values that truly matter in life.”
After a remarkable and challenging journey, Maluach now takes the next step as he officially begins his NBA career with the Phoenix Suns.
