Just over two months ago, Khaman Maluach feared he’d be deported from the United States. Now, he’s a millionaire and the newest NBA Draft pick for the Phoenix Suns.
The 18-year-old South Sudan native was selected with the 10th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. His journey from uncertainty to stardom has stunned fans and inspired millions.
Visa Threat Nearly Ended His NBA Dreams
On April 5—coincidentally, the day Maluach’s Duke Blue Devils lost to the Florida Gators in the Final Four—Marco Rubio, acting as Secretary of State under Donald Trump, announced a sweeping policy to revoke all visas for South Sudanese nationals.
“Effective immediately, due to the failure of South Sudan’s transitional government to accept the return of its repatriated citizens, all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders are revoked,” Rubio stated on X.
The announcement threw Maluach’s future into doubt. Duke officials quickly scrambled to clarify his visa status. And according to CNN Sports, Maluach has since remained in the U.S. under a tourist visa. With his new professional status, he’s now eligible for a P1 athlete visa, ensuring he can legally remain and compete in the NBA.
A Remarkable Rise in Just a Few Years
Standing 7-foot-2, Maluach didn’t start playing basketball until his early teens. Originally fleeing South Sudan for Uganda, he recalls a chance encounter with a stranger who encouraged him to try basketball.
“I just went to a camp, saw tall people who were happy, and thought, ‘This is where I belong,’” Maluach shared. “I was told I’d be something special in a few years.”
That prophecy came true. After just a few short years of training, Maluach has gone from refugee to top-10 draft pick. His rookie contract with Phoenix could be worth up to $27.4 million over four years.
Emotional Night at the NBA Draft
After being selected by the Suns, Maluach wiped away tears as he spoke to ESPN, reflecting on the weight of his journey.
“I had the whole continent on my back,” he said. “I’m representing Africa and giving hope to the next generation.”
Even his former Duke teammate, Cooper Flagg, who was taken first overall by the Dallas Mavericks. He stuck around to see where Maluach would land. The two will now face off as NBA rivals.
The Suns, who missed the playoffs last season with a 36-46 record, see Maluach as part of their rebuild under new head coach Jordan Ott, who replaces the fired Mike Budenholzer. According to Phoenix insider John Gambadoro, the Suns were both “thrilled and surprised” that Maluach was still available at the 10th pick.
Khaman Maluach’s story is more than a draft-night headline. It’s a symbol of perseverance, global hope, and the expanding reach of basketball talent around the world.
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