A rising NBA star from South Sudan confronts U.S. travel bans
Khaman Maluach, a 7-foot-2 NBA draft prospect from South Sudan, is on the verge of a historic leap into professional basketball. However, his journey faces complications due to ongoing U.S. visa restrictions targeting his home country under policies reinstated by the Trump administration.
A Remarkable Rise from Refugee to NBA Prospect
Maluach’s path to the NBA began at a youth basketball camp in Uganda led by former NBA player Luol Deng. Having fled conflict in South Sudan, he initially played soccer before switching to basketball due to his height and athletic promise. Inspired by the film “Rise,” which tells the story of NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo, Maluach’s dream took shape—culminating in a breakout performance at Duke University that landed him among the top lottery prospects for the 2025 NBA Draft.
Policy Challenges Threaten Draft Prospects
Despite his athletic achievements, Maluach’s future in the NBA is entangled with U.S. immigration policy. A visa ban affecting South Sudan means that, unlike most prospects, Maluach may require a waiver each time he enters the United States. This becomes especially problematic if he’s selected by the Toronto Raptors, who frequently cross the U.S.-Canada border during the season. In contrast, if drafted by any of the other 29 teams, he’d only need a waiver when playing games in Toronto.
The situation stems from an April 2025 policy shift, when Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced tightened travel restrictions on South Sudan. The policy includes full suspension of entry for citizens from Sudan and South Sudan, except for those involved in major international sports events, who may apply for exemptions.
NBA and Legal Experts Support Maluach
According to immigration experts, the NBA’s experience handling international travel and complex visa cases provides a level of reassurance. The league believes Maluach is not at risk of deportation and expects that a waiver application, or a transition to an O-1 or P-1 visa for elite athletes, will ensure he can begin his professional career without issue.
Orlando-based immigration attorney Ksenia Maiorova emphasized the NBA’s influence: “The league has a louder voice and deeper reach in these matters, which can help smooth the process.”
A Symbol of Globalization and Uncertainty
Maluach’s case reflects the NBA’s evolving global presence and the unpredictable intersection of politics and sports. As the league continues its international expansion—with MVPs hailing from outside the U.S. for seven consecutive years—Maluach’s story stands as a powerful example of both the reach of basketball and the obstacles athletes can face beyond the court.
