Khaman Maluach: NBA Academy Alum Selected 10th in 2025 NBA Draft

Khaman Maluach, an alumnus of the NBA Academy Africa, made headlines on June 25, 2025, when he was selected 10th overall by the Houston Rockets in the NBA Draft. This selection marks a historic milestone as he becomes the highest-drafted player from the NBA Academy Africa and the Basketball Africa League, subsequently being traded to the Phoenix Suns.

Founded in 2018 in Saly, Senegal, the NBA Academy Africa aims to develop young basketball talent across the continent. According to NBA Academy officials, the academy provides young athletes with professional training, educational opportunities, and exposure to global basketball standards. Maluach, who enrolled at the academy at just 14 years old, credits his experience there for shaping his skills and broadening his cultural horizons. “The NBA Academy opened my eyes and showed me my full potential on what I needed to do to be successful,” Maluach stated in a recent interview.

Born in South Sudan and raised in Uganda, the 7-foot-1 center was recognized as the MVP of the 2023 Basketball Without Borders program before joining Duke University. While at Duke, he averaged 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game, earning accolades as part of the ACC All-Freshman Team. His defensive skills, particularly shot-blocking, have drawn significant attention from scouts and analysts alike.

Maluach's journey to the NBA is not only a personal victory but also an inspiration for many aspiring athletes in Africa. “It keeps me going to see other kids in Africa inspired by my story,” he remarked. His emotional reaction upon being drafted reflects the significance of this moment, as he remarked, “This is one of the best days of my life.”

The NBA Draft, held annually, serves as a platform for teams to select eligible players to bolster their rosters. This year, the draft was marked by significant trades and selections, including former Duke teammate Cooper Flagg being picked first overall by the Dallas Mavericks. The 2025 draft also saw players from various international backgrounds, emphasizing the NBA's commitment to global talent acquisition.

As he embarks on his professional career, Maluach expressed his desire to bring positive attention to his background, aiming to change perceptions of his continent. “I want to show them the great parts and culture, and change the narrative on how they see my continent,” he stated. This perspective aligns with the NBA's broader mission to promote diversity and inclusivity within the sport, both on and off the court.

In conclusion, Khaman Maluach's selection in the NBA Draft is not just a personal achievement but a landmark event for African basketball. His story serves to illustrate the potential of young athletes in the region and highlights the growing influence of the NBA Academy Africa in nurturing talent for the global stage. As he prepares to don the Phoenix Suns jersey, the future looks bright for Maluach and for many young players who aspire to follow in his footsteps.