The Duke Blue Devils were favorites to win the 2025 men’s NCAA championship, but they lost surprisingly to the Houston Cougars in the Final Four. Since the tournament ended, several Blue Devils have declared for the NBA draft, including the projected number one picks, Cooper Flagg and Kon Kneuppel.
As of Monday morning, another Duke player has declared for the 2025 NBA draft. South Sudanese center, Khaman Maluach, declared for the draft at the last minute. Maluach is widely regarded as the top big man available and is projected to be a lottery pick in June.
Visa Issues Threaten Khaman Maluach’s NBA Future
Shortly before the Final Four games, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a new plan to revoke all visas held by people with a South Sudanese passport. While no action has been taken since then, the State Department has not announced any change to that plan.
This decision by the U.S government puts Maluach’s NBA future in jeopardy as he can’t re-enter the states should he leave, and he cannot play for an NBA team due to his inability to get a P1 visa.
Although it is rumored that the paperwork has been submitted and the Center’s camp is keeping it low-key, visa issues could be one of the reasons for his late draft declaration. If Maluach’s situation doesn’t change, his options include getting drafted and playing in Europe or returning to college.
One of two freshmen who started all 39 games for Duke, Maluach averaged 8.6 points and 6.6 rebounds while helping the Blue Devils to a 35-4 record and winning the ACC championship. He blocked 1.3 shots per game as Duke produced one of the nation’s best defensive performances for the season.
During March Madness, the 18-year-old averaged 10.4 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks in five games. He played for South Sudan at the Paris Olympics in 2024. Maluach is considered a killer shot-blocker and rim protector, while he also finishes strong around the rim.
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While his offensive game is limited, he has soft hands and a nice touch near the rim. He’s only 18, which means he has a lot of time and room for improvement.
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