Phoenix Suns guard Grayson Allen highlighted rookie center Khaman Maluach’s vocal presence during the team’s first training camp practices. Allen told reporters that the 19-year-old quickly made an impression with his defensive command.
“He talks nonstop on the court,” Allen said, via Duane Rankin. “Like he’s commanding the defense, calling out coverages, constantly talking. For a rookie, let alone a 19-year-old guy to come into a gym and do that first day of training camp is impressive. He’s already ready in that aspect.”
Maluach, listed at 7-foot-2, joined the Suns this summer after being drafted 10th overall by the Houston Rockets and immediately traded to Phoenix as part of the Kevin Durant deal finalized in July. The selection made him the highest-drafted player in history to come out of the NBA Academy Africa and the Basketball Africa League.
Before reaching the NBA, Maluach built his résumé through stints in the BAL with Cobra Sport, AS Douanes, and the City Oilers. He was named MVP of Basketball Without Borders in 2023 and posted standout numbers in the 2024 BAL season, averaging 17.5 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks across six games.
His rapid development continued on the international stage, where he became known for his shot-blocking and rebounding. Now with Phoenix, Maluach enters a frontcourt rotation that also features Nick Richards and Mark Williams.
