"I grew up not knowing anything about basketball": Khaman Maluach reveals Zion Williamson inspired him to commit to Duke
Highly touted Duke freshman Khaman Maluach revealed that NBA star Zion Williamson inspired him to commit to the Blue Devils.
In an interview posted by Slam University on its X account, the seven-foot-two Maluach said he became a fan of Williamson by watching his Duke highlights from the 2018-19 season.
"I grew up not knowing anything about basketball, but when I started playing basketball, I saw highlights with Zion Williamson and him going to Duke. So that's how I knew about Duke or known about Duke since then," Maluach said during the Blue Devils media day last Friday.
"Back in my place, when I tried to explain it to my little cousins that I'm at Duke, they don't get it but when I tell them that I am at Zion Williamson's school they get it," he added.
Maluach, the fourth-ranked prep prospect in the Class of 2024 (per 24/7 Sports), boasts a 7-foot-5 wingspan and a 9-foot-8 standing reach. It will definitely create a big threat for Duke's 2024-25 season rivals.
Third-year Duke coach Jon Scheyer was thrilled to sign Maluach for he is expected to combine his excellent offensive skillset in the 2024-25 season.
Duke teammate praises Khaman Maluach before the upcoming season
Khaman Maluach has received less talk among incoming college players despite impressive rankings from various high school recruitment websites. Duke guard Tyrese Proctor opened up about his teammate in a podcast.
During the latest episode of The Brotherhood Podcast, the junior guard described Maluach as a fierce and intimidating defender on the court.
“People understand how good Man Man is. But I don’t think they understand the impact he has on the team. He’s really just, like, a protector. Even if he’s just there, he’s in the back of your mind,” Proctor said (18:24)
Khaman Maluach hopes to continue his magical 2024 run with Duke. He dominated the BAL scene, tallying 17.8 points, 13.5 rebounds and 2.8 blocks per game with the City Oilers.
Maluach competed in the Paris Olympics between July and August as part of the South Sudan men's basketball team. More than the hype surrounding him, he is also one of the flagbearers of a young country, seeking further recognition in the basketball scene.