When Khaman Maluach first told people he wanted to play in the NBA, the reaction was often the same — a smile, a chuckle, maybe even an eye-roll.
A teenager from a refugee camp in Uganda, without a formal training facility, professional coaching, or even consistent access to a basketball court? The odds were stacked high. But last night, under the blinding lights of the NBA Draft stage, Khaman made the world believe.
With his name called in the first round, the 7’2″ South Sudanese center became one of the most powerful stories of the 2025 NBA Draft — and possibly its biggest sleeper pick.
The road to this moment was anything but conventional. Raised far from the traditional basketball pipeline, Khaman’s introduction to the game came late. Yet his natural talent was impossible to ignore. Tall, agile, and with an instinctive feel for shot-blocking, it wasn’t long before scouts and development programs took notice.
He eventually joined the NBA Academy Africa, where his raw ability transformed into real promise. By 17, he was already turning heads internationally, representing South Sudan in the FIBA World Cup qualifiers and matching up with seasoned pros — holding his own and then some.
Still, skepticism followed him into draft season. “Too raw.” “Too young.” “Unproven.” But Khaman didn’t listen.
“I knew I belonged,” he said after hearing his name called. “I worked every day like I was already in the league. And tonight, that belief paid off.”
The reaction from his supporters was electric — from former coaches to teammates, fans across Africa, and even NBA legends who’ve watched his journey with admiration.
Online, the narrative flipped instantly:
“Y’all said he was too raw. Look at him now.”
“This is why you never doubt a dreamer.”
“South Sudan’s got a star on the rise!”
Khaman’s game is still developing, but his potential is limitless. Rim protection, mobility, and flashes of offensive polish — he’s the kind of long-term project franchises dream of turning into an elite two-way force.
From being doubted and dismissed to walking across the NBA stage in a custom suit, Khaman Maluach’s story is a living reminder: bet on yourself, even when no one else will.
Because one day, they might just be clapping the loudest.
