Khaman Maluach Biography: Khaman Madit Maluach born September 14, 2006 is a South Sudanese college basketball player for the Duke Blue Devils in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Standing 7 feet 2 inches (2.18 meters) tall, he plays as a center. Additionally, he is a member of the South Sudan national team, which he joined at the age of 16.
Khaman Maluach Biography
Khaman Madit Maluach is a South Sudanese basketball prodigy whose journey from a refugee camp to the prestigious courts of Duke University exemplifies resilience and determination. Standing 7 feet 2 inches tall, Maluach has quickly become one of the most promising prospects in basketball, earning recognition as a top contender in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Khaman Madit Maluach is a South Sudanese college basketball player for the Duke Blue Devils of the Atlantic Coast Conference. Standing at 7 ft 2 in, he plays the center position. He is also a current member of the South Sudan national team, which he joined at the age of 16.
Born: 14 September 2006 (age 18 years), Rumbek, South Sudan
Height: 2.18 m
Current teams: Duke Blue Devils men’s basketball (#9 / Center) ·
Weight: 113 kg
Education: Duke University
League: Atlantic Coast Conference
Early Life
Maluach was born in Rumbek, South Sudan, but grew up as a refugee in Kawempe, Uganda, alongside his mother and siblings. He attended Bethel Covenant College in Bwejjaba. In 2019, a local boda boda motorcyclist noticed Maluach’s height and encouraged him to try basketball. He attended a basketball camp organized by Luol Deng, which sparked his interest in the sport. Later, Maluach joined the NBA Academy Africa in Saly, Senegal, where he pursued both basketball and education.
Quick Facts
Detail
Information
Full Name
Khaman Madit Maluach
Date of Birth
September 14, 2006
Place of Birth
Rumbek, South Sudan
Nationality
South Sudanese
Height
7 feet 2 inches (218 cm)
Weight
250 lbs (113 kg)
Position
Center
College
Duke University (2024–present)
High School
NBA Academy Africa (Saly, Senegal)
Family Background
Born on September 14, 2006, in Rumbek, South Sudan, Khaman Maluach’s early years were shaped by the devastation of civil war. His family fled to Uganda, settling in the Kawempe suburb of Kampala. Growing up in a refugee camp, Maluach faced significant challenges, including limited access to resources and opportunities. Despite these hardships, his exceptional height became apparent early on. By the age of 13, standing 6 feet 7 inches tall, he caught the attention of a local coach who encouraged him to try basketball. This was the start of his basketball journey.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
In 2019, Maluach attended a basketball camp organized by former NBA star Luol Deng, a fellow South Sudanese. Inspired by Deng’s success, Maluach decided to pursue basketball more seriously. He joined the NBA Academy Africa in Saly, Senegal, in 2021, where he combined elite basketball training with academic education. At the academy, Maluach’s skills flourished. He played a crucial role in South Sudan’s qualification for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris and was named MVP of the 2023 Basketball Without Borders Africa camp, further cementing his status as a rising star.
Notable Achievements
Maluach’s professional career has included significant stints in the Basketball Africa League (BAL). In the 2022 season, he made his debut for Cobra Sport, playing against defending champions Zamalek. The following year, he joined AS Douanes and helped lead them to the finals. In 2024, he was drafted by the Ugandan club City Oilers, where he set a league record with seven blocks in a single game and led the league in rebounding. On the collegiate level, Maluach committed to Duke University on March 6, 2024, choosing the Blue Devils over other prestigious programs such as UCLA, Kentucky, and Kansas. His decision was influenced by the impression Zion Williamson made on him during his younger years.
Current Relevance and Recent Updates
As of December 2024, Maluach is a freshman at Duke University, playing for the Blue Devils in the Atlantic Coast Conference. His transition to college basketball has been marked by impressive performances, including a double-double with 11 points and 14 rebounds against Army West Point. His potential has drawn attention, with many projecting him as a top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Personal Life and Relationships
Maluach keeps details about his personal life private. He maintains a low profile regarding his family and relationships, focusing the public’s attention on his basketball career and achievements.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
Maluach’s late entry into basketball, starting at 13, is uncommon among elite players.
He would often study the moves of NBA stars like Joel Embiid and Giannis Antetokounmpo on YouTube after midnight when it was cheaper.
Despite his towering height, Maluach is known for his agility and versatility on the court.
Charitable Work and Legacy
Maluach’s journey from a refugee camp to international basketball stages serves as an inspiration to many. While specific charitable endeavors are not widely publicized, his story highlights the power of sports and education to transform lives. His commitment to representing South Sudan on the global stage has also brought attention to the country’s emerging basketball talent.
Future Plans and Impact on Culture
Khaman Maluach’s future is bright, with his sights set on the NBA. Already making a name for himself both in Africa and internationally, his decision to attend Duke University is seen as a significant step toward a professional basketball career. He has expressed a desire to follow in the footsteps of South Sudanese basketball legends like Luol Deng and Manute Bol, aiming to not only excel in the NBA but also raise the profile of South Sudan’s growing basketball scene.
As of 2025, the basketball world eagerly anticipates his next move, with scouts and analysts predicting a successful NBA career. Beyond basketball, Maluach has become a symbol of perseverance and hope, particularly for young athletes from refugee backgrounds. His rise to prominence is proof that dreams can be achieved despite the obstacles life may present.
Khaman Maluach Net Worth 2025
As of 2025, Khaman Maluach’s NIL deal valuation is estimated at $1 million, according to On3’s data. However, he has yet to sign any endorsement deals with brands.
