Who is Khaman Maluach?
Khaman Madit Maluach is a South Sudanese professional basketball player who currently plays for the Phoenix Suns in the NBA. Born on September 14, 2006, in Rumbek, South Sudan, his journey to basketball stardom is nothing short of extraordinary. After fleeing civil war with his family, he grew up in a refugee camp in Kawempe, Uganda.
He didn’t pick up a basketball until age 13, when a passing motorcyclist encouraged him to try the sport. That moment sparked a meteoric rise—from playing barefoot in Uganda to joining the NBA Academy Africa in Senegal, then starring at Duke University, and finally being selected in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Khaman Maluach Biography
Khaman Madit Maluach is a rising basketball star whose journey from a refugee camp to the NBA has captured global attention. Born on September 14, 2006, in Rumbek, South Sudan, Khaman’s early life was shaped by the civil war that forced his family to flee to Kawempe, Uganda, where he was raised alongside his siblings by his mother.
Early Life and Discovery
Khaman didn’t start playing basketball until the age of 13, when a passing motorcyclist suggested he try the sport due to his height. That moment proved pivotal. He began playing seriously after attending a local tournament organized by South Sudanese basketball legend Luol Deng in 2019. Despite limited access to facilities—often walking 45 minutes just to find a court—his raw talent stood out. Who is Miles Brown Jr.?
NBA Academy and College Career
In 2021, Khaman joined the NBA Academy Africa in Senegal, where he honed his skills and developed physically. He later committed to Duke University in 2024, choosing the program over offers from UCLA, Kentucky, and Kansas. At Duke, he averaged 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. He earned ACC All-Freshman Team honors and helping the team reach the 2025 NCAA Final Four.
Professional Career and NBA Draft
Khaman made history in the 2025 NBA Draft, becoming the 10th overall pick by the Houston Rockets, who then traded his rights to the Phoenix Suns. This made him the highest-drafted player ever from NBA Academy Africa. His emotional reaction at the draft—tears streaming as he donned a jacket lined with the flags of South Sudan and Uganda—symbolized the magnitude of his journey. Also Read About Aaron Pierre
International Representation
Khaman has proudly represented South Sudan on the global stage. He played in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup and the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he was the youngest player in both tournaments. His performances have made him a symbol of hope for African youth and a key figure in South Sudan’s basketball renaissance. Who is Luka Dončić?
Personal Life and Legacy
Standing at 7 feet 2 inches (2.18 meters) and weighing 250 pounds (113 kg), Khaman plays the center position and is known for his shot-blocking, rebounding, and efficient scoring. Off the court, he remains grounded, often speaking about his humble beginnings and the importance of perseverance.
From a refugee camp to the NBA, Khaman Maluach’s story is one of resilience, talent, and inspiration. He continues to be a beacon for young athletes across Africa, proving that even the most unlikely dreams can come true.
Khaman Maluach Height
Khaman stands at an imposing 7 feet 2 inches (2.18 meters) tall. His height, combined with a wingspan of over 7’6″, makes him a dominant presence in the paint on both ends of the court.
Khaman Maluach Age
As of now, Khaman Maluach is 18 years old, having been born on September 14, 2006.
Khaman Maluach NBA Draft
In the 2025 NBA Draft, Khaman was selected 10th overall by the Houston Rockets, but his rights were immediately traded to the Phoenix Suns as part of a blockbuster deal. This made him the highest-drafted player ever from NBA Academy Africa and a symbol of hope for aspiring athletes across the continent.
Khaman Maluach Salary
While his official rookie contract details have not been publicly disclosed, as the 10th overall pick. Khaman is expected to earn a multi-million dollar rookie-scale contract in line with NBA standards. Rookie contracts for top-10 picks typically range between $4–6 million annually, depending on bonuses and team options.
Khaman Maluach Instagram
Khaman is active on Instagram under the handle . His feed features highlights from his games, behind-the-scenes moments, and tributes to his African heritage.
Khaman Maluach Net Worth
As of mid-2025, Khaman’s estimated net worth is around $1 million, largely driven by his NBA rookie contract and NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals during his time at Duke. This figure is expected to grow significantly as he establishes himself in the league.
Khaman Maluach Brother
Khaman has several siblings, including a brother named Majok, who has spoken publicly about the pride and emotion he feels watching Khaman succeed. Majok once said, “I like watching him on YouTube because if I watch him on TV, I get emotional”.
Khaman Maluach Parents
Khaman’s father is Madit Maluach, who remained in South Sudan for work while the rest of the family relocated to Uganda during the civil war. His mother, whose name is not widely known, raised Khaman and his six siblings in Kawempe, Uganda. She played a pivotal role in his upbringing and continues to be a source of inspiration for him.
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Khaman Maluach Nationality | Ethnicity
Khaman is South Sudanese by nationality and Black African by ethnicity. He proudly represents both South Sudan and the broader African continent, often wearing symbols of his heritage during public appearances.
Khaman Maluach Girlfriend
As of now, there is no public information confirming whether Khaman Maluach is in a relationship. He appears to be focused on his burgeoning basketball career and has kept his personal life private.