It’s the second half of Duke’s battle against the Arizona Wildcats in their quest for an Elite Eight spot. As I write this, the scoreboard reads 91-86 with 1:33 left in the game. But beyond the points, one stat stands out—blocks. While Cooper Flagg has swatted away three shots, Khaman Maluach has rejected four, forming a formidable defensive wall for the Blue Devils. With seven combined blocks, Duke’s defense has anchored their fight. But as Maluach continues to rise on the court, the question lingers: Who is Khaman Maluach?

Who is Khaman Maluach’s father Madit?

Born on September 14, 2006, in Rumbek, South Sudan, Maluach’s journey to basketball prominence is rooted in resilience. The chaos of the South Sudanese Civil War shaped his early years, forcing his family to seek safety in Uganda. They settled in Kawempe, a suburb on the outskirts of Kampala, where Maluach spent his childhood alongside his mother and six siblings. His father, Madit Maluach, remained in South Sudan for work, making Khaman’s upbringing one of long distances and perseverance.

More to follow….