Khaman Maluach Making Early Waves with the Phoenix Suns

Rookie Center Balances NBA and G League Minutes as He Develops into Defensive Asset

Phoenix Suns rookie center Khaman Maluach is turning heads early in his professional career as he splits time between the Suns’ NBA roster and their G League affiliate, the Valley Suns. Selected 10th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, the 7-foot-1 center from South Sudan has quickly distinguished himself as a defensive specialist with immense upside on both ends of the floor.

Maluach arrived in the NBA after a standout single season at Duke University, where his combination of size, athleticism, and instinctive defensive reads made him one of the most intriguing young big men in college basketball.

While still adjusting to the pace and physicality of the NBA, Maluach has shown steady improvement with each outing. His minutes with the Valley Suns have given him valuable opportunities to polish his offensive repertoire, work on post positioning, and build confidence as a scorer around the rim. Coaches have praised his work ethic, noting that his willingness to learn and compete helps set the tone for both squads.

With the Suns integrating Maluach into their rotation in manageable increments, expectations are rising that he could become a cornerstone of the franchise’s interior defense for years to come. As Phoenix navigates a competitive Western Conference landscape, Maluach’s growth could prove pivotal down the stretch and into future playoff pursuits. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely as his rookie season unfolds.