In a significant announcement, 7-foot-2 center Khaman Maluach from the NBA Academy Africa in Senegal has revealed that he has committed to Duke University. Maluach, projected as the No. 3 pick in the 2025 NBA draft by ESPN, joins an already stacked recruiting class assembled by head coach Jon Scheyer.

Maluach spoke highly of Duke, stating that it feels like home and where he truly belongs. The decision was not easy for him, but he felt most comfortable with Duke in terms of his development and the relationships he built with the coaches. While other big-time programs had recruited him, Duke stood out as the best choice.

The recruiting class at Duke is shaping up to be one of the most impressive in recent memory. Alongside Maluach, it includes projected No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg, as well as highly regarded recruits Isaiah Evans, Patrick Ngongba, Kon Knueppel, and Darren Harris.

Maluach considered several other universities, including Kentucky, Kansas, and UCLA, and also received offers from the G League Ignite and the Australian NBL's Next Stars program. After weighing his options, Maluach ultimately chose Duke.

Before he starts at Duke, Maluach will headline the World team at the Nike Hoop Summit in Portland, Oregon, next month. This event gives him an opportunity to compete against future teammates Flagg, Ngongba, and Evans for the first time. Maluach expressed excitement about the competition, stating that it not only showcases their talent but also helps strengthen their bond as teammates.

Despite having only played basketball for five years, Maluach's rapid improvement since joining the NBA Academy Africa in 2021 has caught the attention of scouts and experts. Standing at 7-foot-2 with a 9-foot-8 standing reach, he possesses excellent shot-blocking abilities, rebounding prowess, and versatility on defense.

Maluach's commitment to Duke also carries significance for the NBA Academy Africa, established in 2017. He is regarded as the best prospect to emerge from the academy thus far and hopes to become the first program graduate to be drafted into the NBA.

The NBA currently operates four academies worldwide, including the Global Academy in Canberra, Australia, which serves as the hub for elite prospects. Notable alumni from these academies include recent NBA draftees Josh Giddey, Bennedict Mathurin, Dyson Daniels, and Olivier-Maxence Prosper.

As Maluach embarks on his journey with Duke, he aims to continue improving and representing Africa, his country, his family, and the NBA Academy. The talented young center believes that the NBA Academy has played a significant role in his development, nurturing both his physical and mental abilities on and off the court.

With his commitment to Duke and the future challenges he will tackle, the basketball world eagerly awaits Khaman Maluach's rise and the impact he will make on the game.