Maluach Credits NBA Journey to Simple Wisdom From Fellow National Teammate

(PHOENIX) – South Sudanese basketball prodigy Khaman Maluach, now signed with the Phoenix Suns, says a simple piece of advice from a fellow national teammate helped him reach the NBA.

At just 18 years old, Maluach made history as the highest NBA draft pick ever to emerge from the NBA Academy Africa and the most prominent South Sudanese talent to be selected in recent memory.

Maluach’s rise through the ranks of global basketball has been rapid, but he credits his success to one moment of mentorship three years ago. During an interview shared on the official social media channel of the Phoenix Suns, Maluach recalled the words from teammate Marial Shayok that continue to shape his mindset.

“Stay where your feet are,” Maluach said. “Marial was in the stands today. He is like a big brother to me. He told me that three years ago, stay present, embrace the moment, and don’t overthink the future. I followed that advice, and now here I am.”

That guidance helped Maluach cope with the pressures of elite level sport. Instead of getting lost in expectations or overwhelmed by hype, he focused on the present, one training session, one game, one day at a time. For a teenager competing on global stages, that mental approach offered balance and clarity.

His calm and composed mentality translated into solid performances on the court. While playing college basketball at Duke University, Maluach posted 8.6 points and 6.6 rebounds in just over 21 minutes per game, with an exceptional 71.2% shooting rate. More than half of his field goals, 77 out of 136, were dunks, showing his efficiency as a rim runner.

During the NCAA Tournament, he elevated his game further, averaging 11.5 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.0 blocks per game while shooting nearly 87% from the field.

Maluach’s potential as a defensive anchor and pick-and-roll threat made him a valuable asset. He was acquired by the Phoenix Suns through a trade involving Houston and Kevin Durant. Basketball analysts rated the trade highly, PFSN gave the Suns an A- for the move, while USA Today rated it A+, calling it an ideal scenario for Phoenix.

Though still developing offensively, Maluach’s role as a lob finisher and rim protector gives the Suns a strong defensive piece. However, beyond numbers and projections, it is the South Sudanese international’s philosophy of staying grounded that makes him stand out.

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