NBA Draft News: Khaman Maluach becomes No. 10 pick during 2025 NBA Draft for Phoenix Suns amid Donald Trump's new visa policy
Khaman Maluach, the former center of the Duke Blue Devils, is now a player for the Phoenix Suns, as the Arizona team chooses him as their No. 10 pick during the 2025 NBA Draft. He will come in place of the recently traded league superstar, Kevin Durant, who was recently traded to the Houston Rockets.
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All this, though, almost didn't happen, as
recently revoked visas for individuals from South Sudan, which is where Maluach is from.
Phoenix Suns keep Khaman Maluach's NBA dream alive
Khaman Maluach, the 7-foot-2 center who recently joined as a member of the Phoenix Suns was born in South Sudan and raised in Uganda. But with Donald Trump's administration revoking visa grants from South Sudanese individuals. Maluach, being one of them, was also concerned about his future and playing dreams, but the Phoenix Suns have successfully managed to keep them alive with their Draft pick.
This Draft pick was facilitated by the Houston Rockets after the Suns traded Kevin Durant for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, this draft's 10th pick, and five second-rounders, who will all move to sunny Arizona before next season starts. The young center is expected to join the rotation for his new team instead of being an immediate starter. This will enable him to gain experience without facing the full pressure from the league head-on right after he starts.
Khaman Maluach is a natural talent
Khaman Maluach averaged 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game while playing for the Duke Blue Devils. The big man/center will be crucial to the Phoenix Suns' upcoming season, as they have lost their star center, Kevin Durant, to the Houston Rockets recently. Maluach will share center duties alongside new signees Nick Richards and Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets.
Thankfully, being a part of the NBA means he can play without having to worry about his visa getting revoked. His selection was under scrutiny, as many believed he might not be eligible for selection. But as he took the stage at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, Wednesday night became a new beginning for the newest member of the Phoenix Suns team.
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