Khaman Maluach: From Refugee to Suns NBA Draft Pick
- Khaman Maluach's improbable journey culminated in being drafted into the NBA.
- Born in Rumbek in 2006, Maluach's family sought refuge in Uganda to escape conflict.
- Local coaches Deng and Aketch Garang quickly recognized Maluach's potential.
Khaman Maluach‘s inspiring story is now a reality: he’s an NBA draft pick. Selected and then traded to the Phoenix Suns, Maluach’s path to professional basketball is a testament to perseverance. Born in South Sudan, his family fled conflict, eventually leading him to uganda. Discovered by a motorcycle taxi driver, he honed his skills, earning a scholarship to the NBA Academy Africa and representing South Sudan in the FIBA World Cup. News Directory 3 is proud to share this unbelievable journey. From learning the fundamentals to reaching basketball’s pinnacle,Maluach’s story will inspire many. Discover what’s next for this rising NBA star.
South Sudan’s khaman Maluach Achieves NBA Dream
Updated June 26, 2025
Khaman Maluach’s improbable journey culminated in being drafted into the NBA. After being selected by the Houston Rockets, he was immediately traded to the Phoenix Suns. Just five years ago, the idea of playing professional basketball was a distant dream for the young man from South Sudan.
Born in Rumbek in 2006, Maluach’s family sought refuge in Uganda to escape conflict. Raised in Kawempe by his mother alongside six siblings, his introduction to basketball was unconventional. A motorcycle taxi driver noticed his height and suggested he try the sport.
Local coaches Deng and Aketch Garang quickly recognized Maluach’s potential. “He learned so quickly,” Deng said. “I told Aketch this kid woudl be the next big thing.”
Within a year, Maluach earned a scholarship to the NBA Academy Africa in Dakar, Senegal. He credits this experience, competing against top talent, with accelerating his advancement. By 16, he was playing for South Sudan’s national team, contributing to their historic Olympic qualification at the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
His performance in the Basketball Africa League and MVP honors at the 2023 Basketball Without Borders Africa camp solidified his status as a top NBA prospect.
“It’s a day I’ll never forget,” Maluach said after the draft.
Deng, reflecting on Maluach’s rapid ascent, expressed immense pride. “Seeing him go from learning the basics to the highest level is really something rare,” he said. “He’s a sign of hope to every African kid that anything is absolutely possible.”
What’s next
Maluach will now prepare to join the Phoenix Suns, continuing his remarkable journey on basketball’s biggest stage.