Duke’s Tallest Player Khaman Maluach Declares for NBA Draft
In a significant move for both Khaman Maluach and Duke University, the 7-foot-2 center has officially declared for the NBA Draft. As the tallest player on the Duke Blue Devils’ roster this past season, Maluach made a strong impact on the court, averaging 8.6 points and 6.6 rebounds per game. News of his declaration broke just before the April 26 deadline, marking a pivotal moment in his young career.
Khaman Maluach: A Rising Star
Maluach, originally from South Sudan, made his way to Duke from the NBA Africa Academy. His journey speaks volumes about his grit and determination. Despite not having a ranking in the Rivals150 for the Class of 2024 due to his international status, he was awarded 5-star status—a testament to his talent and potential.
Having reclassified from the Class of 2025, Maluach entered college a year early, following in the footsteps of fellow prospect Cooper Flagg. This decision brought him to a prominent program where he quickly found a role, starting in all 39 of Duke’s games alongside fellow freshman Kon Knueppel.
Expected Lottery Pick
With his height, athleticism, and skill set, Maluach is projected to be a lottery pick in the upcoming draft. Along with Knueppel, who also declared for the draft, the duo represents Duke’s strong presence in a highly competitive field. Junior guard Tyrese Proctor has also made his intentions known, although his draft status remains uncertain.
According to NBA analysts, Maluach’s unique profile makes him an attractive choice for teams looking to bolster their frontcourt options. His combination of size and skill has not only impressed coaches but also scouts, who are always on the lookout for potential breakthrough talents.
Draft Timeline and Important Dates
The early entry deadline for the NBA draft was set for midnight on April 26. Following this, the NBA Draft Combine is scheduled to take place from May 11 to May 18 in Chicago. This event will be critical for prospects like Maluach, as it offers them a chance to showcase their skills in front of NBA executives and scouts.
The NBA Draft Lottery will be held on May 12, and it’s an event that many teams will be eyeing closely, especially those looking to land top prospects. The final decision date for players wishing to withdraw their names from the draft and maintain their college eligibility will arrive ten days post-combine, specifically on May 28.
The NBA Draft itself is set for June 25 and 26, 2023, spanning two rounds. Notably, this year there will only be 59 picks in the draft due to the New York Knicks forfeiting their second-round selection.
Impact on Duke’s Program
Maluach’s departure, alongside the other draft declarations, signifies a crucial transition for the Duke Blue Devils. Head coach Jon Scheyer now faces the challenge of reshaping his roster in a landscape where talented players frequently move to the professional ranks.
The reclassification of players and their swift progress to the NBA highlight the increasing trend of early departures in college basketball. This phenomenon pressures programs to adapt quickly and find innovative ways to bring in fresh talent.
Conclusion
Khaman Maluach’s declaration for the NBA Draft is a defining moment not only for him but also for Duke University as they navigate this transitional period. As one of the most promising players on the Blue Devils roster, his departure will invariably reshape the dynamics of next season’s team.
Fans of Duke and NBA enthusiasts alike should keep an eye on the upcoming draft events as Maluach and his peers make their case for a spot in the professional league. With so much talent on the line, this draft promises to be one of the most exciting yet.
Feel free to share your thoughts on Maluach’s decision or which players you believe will make the biggest impact in the upcoming drafts in the comments below. Stay tuned for more updates on Duke basketball and NFL news as this story continues to unfold.
