When it comes to handling transitions, Duke Basketball has always been a model program. Whether it was the legendary Mike Krzyzewski passing the torch to Jon Scheyer or the steady stream of players heading to the NBA, Duke knows how to manage change.
This year has been no different. We’ve already seen Kon Knueppel, Tyrese Proctor, and Cooper Flagg declare for the NBA Draft, while Stanley Borden entered the transfer portal. Typically, these announcements roll out in an orderly fashion, each player making his move known within days of each other.
But one name has been noticeably missing from the announcements: Khaman Maluach.
Why Khaman Maluach’s Decision Is Taking Longer
At this point in a normal year, we would probably have a clear idea of Maluach’s plans. Is he going pro? Is he staying for another season in Durham? The uncertainty surrounding his decision is unusual—and it’s because Khaman Maluach’s situation is much more complicated than that of his teammates.
NBA Draft Stock Uncertainty
First, there’s the basketball side. Maluach is widely considered a likely first-round pick. But the difference between being a mid-to-late first-rounder and being selected in the lottery can have major financial and career implications. He could be weighing where exactly he might land on draft night. Is he guaranteed lottery status, or could he slide? That uncertainty alone could cause hesitation.
Visa Issues Add a Unique Challenge
But for Khaman Maluach, it’s not just about basketball. His situation off the court brings even more complexity.
One major concern is his visa status. If you followed the NCAA tournament closely, you may recall that the U.S. government revoked visas for South Sudanese citizens. As a South Sudan native, Maluach could face real challenges traveling in and out of the country. If he were to leave the U.S., there’s a real chance he might not be able to return easily under his current student visa.
Transitioning to the NBA would require a different visa—possibly a work visa or a green card—and it’s unclear how smoothly that process would go for him. Immigration issues are complicated even in the best of circumstances, and for someone on the verge of beginning a professional career, it’s a huge factor to consider.
Risk of Being Drafted by a Canadian Team
There’s also the NBA Draft itself. If Maluach is drafted by a team outside the U.S., like the Toronto Raptors, things could get even trickier. Would he be able to travel freely between the U.S. and Canada for games? If not, a team might think twice before investing a valuable pick in him. The risk would be significant not just for Maluach, but for any team drafting him.
In short, staying at Duke for another year under his existing visa could, on paper, seem like a safer move.
Financial Responsibilities Toward His Family
But it’s not that simple either.
Unlike many of his peers, Khaman Maluach carries the responsibility of helping his family, who fled their homeland during the ongoing conflict in South Sudan. Turning pro now could offer him the financial security to support them right away.
While Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals have changed the college sports landscape, international players like Maluach often face more restrictions when it comes to NIL earnings. That means staying in college might not offer the same financial opportunities that going pro immediately would provide. The recently proposed House Settlement could change some of those restrictions, but for now, it’s a gray area.
A Complicated Decision Ahead
Ultimately, Maluach’s decision isn’t just about whether he’s “NBA ready.” It’s about weighing professional opportunities, immigration uncertainties, financial responsibilities, and long-term stability for himself and his family.
It’s clear that Khaman Maluach isn’t dragging his feet—he’s facing a set of challenges that very few athletes his age ever have to deal with.
Fans should understand that this isn’t a typical “should I go pro or stay?” situation. For Maluach, it’s about much more than basketball. It’s about his future, his family’s future, and navigating a complex system most people never have to think about.
No matter what decision Khaman Maluach ultimately makes, one thing is certain: he has the talent, character, and determination to succeed wherever he goes. Those who have watched him grow at Duke know he’s a special player—and an even more special person.
We’re all rooting for him to find the best path forward.