MAN MAN TO PHX! Khaman Maluach Drafted 10th Overall by the Phoenix Suns

MAN MAN TO PHX! 🔥 Khaman Maluach Drafted 10th Overall by the Phoenix Suns

The dream is now a reality for Khaman Maluach, the 7-foot-1 phenom out of Duke University, who officially became a top 10 NBA Draft pick on Wednesday night. With the 10th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft  acquired via the Houston Rockets  the Phoenix Suns selected Maluach, adding one of the most intriguing young big men in the world to their roster.

Known by friends, teammates, and fans alike as “Man Man,” Maluach’s journey to the NBA is nothing short of incredible. Born in South Sudan and raised in Uganda, Maluach’s basketball story began with the NBA Academy Africa, a developmental program designed to cultivate elite basketball talent across the continent. From there, he rapidly emerged as a top global prospect, thanks to his rare blend of size, mobility, defensive instincts, and high basketball IQ.

After joining the Duke Blue Devils for the 2024-25 season, Maluach made an instant impact. He dominated in the paint, disrupted opposing offenses with his shot-blocking, and showcased surprising touch around the rim. His presence elevated Duke’s frontcourt and contributed to their deep postseason run, earning him attention from scouts across the NBA. His draft stock surged, and by the time the combine rolled around, he was a projected lottery lock.

Phoenix made the call  and now Maluach will bring his talents to the Valley of the Sun. The Suns, looking to add youth and rim protection to their veteran-heavy core, were impressed by Maluach’s versatility and potential to anchor a defense. With established stars like Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, Maluach won’t be asked to carry the offense right away, but he’s expected to immediately contribute as a shot-blocker, lob threat, and defensive disruptor.

But this is more than just a basketball move. This is a historic moment for African basketball. Maluach becomes one of the highest-drafted players ever from the NBA Academy Africa and represents a new wave of global talent that’s changing the landscape of the league. His selection was met with celebration in Uganda and South Sudan, where young hoopers are beginning to see a clearer path from dusty courts to the brightest stage in basketball.

Maluach’s work ethic, humility, and hunger to improve have impressed every coach he’s played for. At Duke, he quickly became a fan favorite not just for his dominant blocks, but for his quiet leadership and relentless motor. Phoenix fans can expect more of the same as he begins his NBA journey in orange and purple.

As the cameras flashed and the hat went on, a smile lit up his face  and you could feel it across the world: “Man Man” had made it.

Phoenix, get ready. A new era is rising in the desert. 🏀☀️