Duke Freshman Khaman Maluach Declares for NBA Draft After One Season
Duke freshman center Khaman Maluach is heading to the NBA after just one season with the Blue Devils. The 7-foot-2, 250-pound standout officially announced his decision Sunday via the program’s social media, confirming he will enter the 2024 NBA Draft. The news was initially reported Saturday night by The News & Observer in Raleigh, ahead of the NBA’s underclassmen declaration deadline.
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer praised Maluach in a social media message, saying, “His best basketball is still ahead of him. He’s only beginning to show what he can become. The foundation is there and his skills are going to keep developing.”
Maluach made a name for himself as an athletic rim-runner and shot-blocker, contributing significantly on both ends of the court. He was a key part of Duke’s defense, which ranked among the nation’s best according to KenPom, and his ability to defend on the perimeter added to his versatility.
During the 2023–24 season, Maluach averaged 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game, shooting an impressive 71.2% from the field. He also shot 76.6% from the free-throw line and showed flashes of expanded shooting range, knocking down four three-pointers. With a 7-foot-5 wingspan and a 9-foot-8 standing reach, he brings intriguing physical tools to the next level.
Originally from South Sudan, Maluach has international experience, having competed for his country in the 2024 Paris Olympics. He joined NBA Academy Africa in 2021 and was a top-five national recruit in the 2024 class according to 247Sports. He also participated in the Nike Hoop Summit this April.
In Duke’s Final Four loss to Houston on April 5, Maluach scored six points but failed to record a rebound. On the same day, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced visa revocations for South Sudanese passport holders, raising concerns about Maluach’s immigration status. Duke spokesperson Frank Tramble acknowledged the situation and said the university is reviewing any potential effects on its students.
Maluach becomes the fourth Blue Devil to declare early for the draft this year, joining freshman Kon Knueppel, junior Tyrese Proctor, and Cooper Flagg the AP National Player of the Year and projected top pick in the draft.
With Maluach’s departure, Duke will lose all five starters from this past season. Graduate transfer Sion James is also moving on. However, the Blue Devils will reload with the nation’s No. 3-ranked recruiting class, highlighted by twin brothers Cameron and Cayden Boozer.
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