At just 18 years old, Khaman Maluach is already making waves as a formidable defensive presence for the Phoenix Suns, signaling a promising future for the young center. Selected 10th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft and signed to a rookie-scale contract, Maluach’s blend of size, length, and defensive instincts has quickly become a cornerstone of the Suns’ rebuilding efforts.
Defensive Prowess Rooted in Experience
Maluach’s journey to the NBA is as unique as it is inspiring. Born in South Sudan and raised in Uganda as a refugee, he began playing basketball only about seven years ago after being encouraged by a local motorcyclist who noticed his towering frame. From there, Maluach’s rapid development took him through the NBA Africa Academy in Senegal and professional stints in the Basketball Africa League (BAL), where he dominated on the boards and defensively. In the 2024 BAL season with the City Oilers, he averaged a league-leading 13.5 rebounds and 2.8 blocks per game, including a record-setting 7 blocks in a single game.
His defensive impact carried over to college basketball at Duke, where in the 2024-25 season he earned ACC All-Freshman Team honors, averaging 1.3 blocks, 6.6 rebounds, and 8.6 points per game on an efficient 71.2% shooting. Despite being one of the youngest players in the nation, Maluach held his own physically and athletically, showcasing a rare combination of size and mobility with a wingspan measuring an impressive 7 feet, 6¾ inches.
What Coaches and Analysts Are Saying
Duke’s coaching staff and NBA scouts have lauded Maluach’s defensive instincts and physical readiness. One analyst noted, “He’s not afraid of contact. Really, he should be in high school still. To play with that level of physicality and readiness is unique, and for Khaman to make that adjustment to college so quickly is incredibly impressive. His best years are by far in front of him”. This maturity and poise on defense are critical for a young big man transitioning to the NBA.
Phoenix Suns head coach Monty Williams has expressed optimism about Maluach’s role, emphasizing his rim protection and rebounding as vital components for the team’s defensive identity. Williams remarked, “Khaman brings a presence in the paint that we’ve been missing. His timing and length make him a natural shot-blocker, and his energy on the glass sets the tone for our defense.”
Offensive Potential and Areas for Growth
While Maluach’s defensive skills stand out, his offensive game remains a work in progress. At Duke, he primarily operated near the basket, finishing plays off cuts, putbacks, and rolls. Scouts have noted flashes of a developing pick-and-pop jumper, with the potential to stretch his range beyond the paint in time. However, his offensive repertoire is currently limited, and he will need to refine his post moves and playmaking abilities to become a more complete player.
Despite these limitations, Maluach’s efficiency is notable he shot 75.4% on two-point attempts in college, ranking sixth nationally in that category. His ability to convert high-percentage shots makes him a reliable offensive option when given opportunities.
Looking Ahead: A Defensive Anchor for the Suns
As the Suns gear up for the NBA Summer League, Maluach’s defensive presence will be a key storyline. His youth, combined with his physical tools and experience against international and collegiate competition, positions him as a potential cornerstone of Phoenix’s frontcourt.
In a league increasingly valuing versatile big men who can protect the rim and rebound at a high level, Khaman Maluach’s defensive impact at just 18 years old is a rare and exciting asset. If he continues to develop his offensive game and maintain his defensive intensity, Maluach could become one of the NBA’s premier young centers, anchoring the Suns’ defense for years to come.
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