Khaman Maluach reflects on emotional NBA Draft night experience
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 22, 2026, 10:06 AM
Last updated Jun 22, 2026
Khaman Maluach's journey from a South Sudanese refugee to an NBA draft pick has been marked by significant challenges and triumphs. After growing up in Uganda and discovering basketball at age 14, Maluach played for Duke, culminating in being selected 10th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft. His emotional response during the draft highlighted the magnitude of his journey. As he enters his second NBA season, Maluach's past experiences draw attention to the hard work that brought him to this moment.
- •Maluach is a South Sudanese refugee who grew up in Uganda.
- •He began playing basketball at age 14 after encouragement.
- •He was a member of Duke's Final Four team.
- •Maluach was selected 10th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft.
- •His emotional draft moment resonated widely among fans and observers.
- 10:06 AMYahoo Sports — Twitter Gold: Khaman Maluach On Draft Night
"For most guys who are selected, NBA Draft night is a dream come true. Everyone has worked very hard to get there, and it’s a tremendous accomplishment simply to be chosen. Obviously, it’s emotional. But it’s hard to imagine it being more emotional for anyone than it was last year for Duke’s Khaman Maluach. Keep […]
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