Khaman Maluach recruitment: Which NCAA programs recruited the top BAL center prospect?

In the world of college basketball, few stories have been as captivating as that of Khaman Maluach. The 7-foot-2 center from the NBA Academy Africa in Senegal has been a sensation in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) since the age of 15.

Now, at just 17, he’s being labeled '10 times better than Joel Embiid’. Maluach’s recruitment journey was a hot topic in the NCAA.

He attracted attention from top college basketball programs, including Kentucky, Duke, UCLA, and Kansas. These programs were drawn to his impressive performance and potential, with Maluach emphasizing the importance of player development and winning in his choice of college.

In addition to the NCAA, Maluach also considered professional options like the NBA G-League. However, after official visits to Kentucky, Kansas, and UCLA, as well as offers from G League Ignite and the Australian NBL’s Next Stars program, Maluach ultimately picked Duke.

Where will Khaman Maluach play NCAA basketball next year?

Maluach's commitment adds to Duke’s impressive recruiting class, positioning the Blue Devils for another standout season.

On 6 March 2024, Maluach announced his commitment to Duke. Ranked as the third-best prospect in the 2025 NBA draft by ESPN at the time, he chose Duke over UCLA, Kentucky, and Kansas. His decision to commit to Duke University was a significant step in his journey.

It highlighted his ambition to compete at the highest level of college basketball and solidified his status as a sought-after prospect. His commitment to Duke has raised expectations, with experts projecting him as a top pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.

Early Years of Khaman Maluach

Khaman Maluach was born in Rumbek, South Sudan, and grew up in Kawempe, Uganda, as a refugee with his siblings and mother. Despite facing challenges like limited resources, he developed a deep love for basketball and practiced tirelessly on makeshift courts.

His basketball journey began when a local high school coach spotted him and offered him a scholarship to Bethel Covenant College in Bwejjaba. This opportunity marked the beginning of his basketball career.

Maluach’s skills caught the eye of scouts from the NBA Academy Africa in Senegal. This opportunity marked a turning point, providing him with top-notch training and coaching that honed his abilities and set him on a path to success.

His talent shone brightly as Maluach was named MVP at prestigious events like the NBA’s Basketball Without Borders Africa camp and the Global camp during NBA All-Star Weekend.

Breaking Down Khaman Maluach’s Unique Playing Style

Khaman Maluach has a unique playing style that has caught the attention of many in the basketball world.

On offense, Maluach is known for his great soft touch, sharp mobility, and excellent footwork. He plays comfortably as a rim-running big and out of the dunker spots. With a 9-foot-8 standing reach and solid hands, ball handlers are able to throw the ball up near the rim and Maluach is at an advantage to simply go make a play on the ball.

On defense, he protects the rim with his 7-6 wingspan and has the versatility to switch onto smaller guards. ESPN NBA draft analyst Jonathan Givony described him as a competent shooter and emphatic finisher who displays coveted versatility defensively covering ground and blocking shots with excellent timing.

In addition to his skills, Maluach is also known for his speed. He runs the floor exceptionally well, often finishing fastbreaks with thunderous dunks. His unique blend of size, skill, and speed makes him a formidable player on the court.

Maluach’s ceiling is considered to be very high, and many are excited to see how his playing style will evolve and adapt as he transitions from the BAL to the NCAA.