It is not every day that a 7’2″ center showcases long-range shooting with the confidence and precision of a seasoned guard, but that is precisely what Khaman Maluach accomplished during a recent NBA pre-draft workout.
The Duke freshman stunned observers by making 14 of 16 three-point attempts, a performance that quickly went viral after being posted by College Basketball Report on X. The video has garnered widespread attention for good reason; it highlights a significant evolution in Maluach’s offensive game.
Maluach had already established himself as a premier shot-blocker and rim-runner, but this new dimension of shooting drastically alters his draft profile. Throughout his freshman season at Duke, he attempted only 16 three-pointers, converting just four.
Now, his ability to step into jump shots with confidence and display a refined shooting motion aligns perfectly with the modern NBA’s expectations for versatile big men. It is a notable development that could elevate his stock significantly ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft.
Khaman Maluach’s Shooting Prowess Shines in Pre-Draft Workouts
That shooting display, 14 of 16 from deep, isn’t just good. It’s elite. And it shows just how much work Maluach has been putting in behind the scenes. At Duke, he averaged 8.6 points and 6.6 boards per game while hitting over 71% of his shots from the field. He only made four all season. That workout video changed everything.
Adding that kind of shooting ability to his already strong defensive game makes him a nightmare matchup. He’s got a 7’5″ wingspan, a 9’8″ standing reach, and now a jumper too. That’s the kind of skill set that can push a guy into the top five on draft night.
Khaman Maluach hit 14 straight threes at NBA predraft workouts today.
He only attempted 16 threes all season at Duke. 🤯
— College Basketball Report (@CBKReport) May 11, 2025
This kind of growth doesn’t happen by accident, either. Rumors suggest he’s been locked in on his mechanics, fine-tuning the consistency of his release and extending his range. He’s more confident now, shooting with rhythm and ease even in light contests.
Fans and analysts are hyped, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. A guy this young, this big, and this skilled is exactly the type of player teams want to build around. No wonder he’s climbing draft boards fast.
What This Means for the 2025 NBA Draft
This performance isn’t just a cool moment; it’s something that could shake up the entire 2025 draft order. Maluach was already considered a top-10 pick, but now teams looking for a modern center, one who can defend the rim and space the floor, might give him an advantage.
It also highlights a growing shift in the league. Centers like Zach Edey have shown they can step out and shoot, too, but Maluach looks ahead of the curve. Teams like the Raptors, who excel at developing international talent, might be circling his name already.
And he’s still just 18 years old and won’t even turn 19 until September. That gives him plenty of time to keep growing his game, and it makes him even more appealing for teams playing the long game. He’s got the skills and the time to become something special.
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Maluach’s breakout shooting display didn’t just catch people’s attention; it may have changed the way we talk about him entirely. He’s not just a rim protector anymore. He’s a legit threat from three, and that kind of versatility makes him one of the most intriguing big men in this draft class.
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