Now Official: Jon Scheyer Confirms Duke Star Khaman Maluach’s Decision to Leave Team as Season Ends — A Big Loss
In a major development for Duke basketball, head coach Jon Scheyer has officially confirmed that star player Khaman Maluach has decided to leave the team following the conclusion of the season.
The announcement, which many feared but few expected so soon, marks a significant shift for the Blue Devils as they prepare for the future without one of their most promising young talents.
Maluach, a standout freshman center, quickly became a cornerstone for Duke’s success this past season. Standing at 7-foot-2, the South Sudanese phenom brought elite rim protection, rebounding dominance, and a surprising ability to stretch the floor with his mid-range and occasional three-point shooting. His raw athleticism, combined with a mature understanding of the game, made him a force in the paint and a player who drew the attention of NBA scouts from the very beginning of the season.
Jon Scheyer acknowledged the weight of the loss during his official statement. “Khaman has been an incredible part of our program — not just on the court but in the locker room as well,” Scheyer said. “He’s got a tremendous future ahead of him, and while we’re sad to see him go, we’re proud of the man and the player he’s become during his time at Duke.”
While Scheyer didn’t directly state Maluach’s next move, sources close to the program suggest the freshman is expected to declare for the 2025 NBA Draft, where he is widely projected to be a top-10 pick. His combination of size, mobility, and defensive instincts make him one of the most unique prospects in his class.
Maluach’s departure leaves a considerable void in Duke’s frontcourt, both defensively and in terms of leadership. As one of the youngest players on the team, his maturity and work ethic earned him the respect of veterans and coaches alike. His absence will be felt as the Blue Devils begin offseason workouts and look to rebuild around a new core.
While it’s a big loss, the program remains optimistic. “Khaman set a standard,” Scheyer added. “Now it’s up to the next wave of Duke players to build on it.”
For Duke fans, the hope is that Maluach’s brief time in Durham is just the beginning of a long and successful basketball journey — one that began under the bright lights of Cameron Indoor.
