Potential repercussions for Duke men's basketball player Khaman Maluach, given ongoing State Department decisions regarding South Sudan passport holders.
In a surprising turn of events, Duke University's basketball sensation Khaman Maluach could potentially get caught in the crossfire of diplomatic tensions. The Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, announced an immediate revocation of all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders in the US on a controversial post, aiming to prevent their entry into the country. This decision comes in response to the Transitional Government of South Sudan's alleged sluggishness in accepting the return of their citizens in a timely manner.
The U.S. State Department's announcement immediately set a wave of uncertainties for visaholders and applicants, including Maluach. The towering center from Rumbek, who recently completed his freshman season following Duke's heartbreaking defeat against the Houston Cougars in the Final Four, has been a valuable asset for the Blue Devils, averaging 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game in more than 800 minutes of play.
The U.S. State Department spokesperson hinted that they would provide information and instructions to the affected individuals as it becomes available. CNN has reached out to Duke for further comment on the potential implications for Maluach's future in the US.
Maluach and his family fled to neighboring Uganda during his boyhood years due to conflict in South Sudan. He made history last year as he represented his country at the Paris Olympics – the first time a basketball team from South Sudan has graced the Games. Prior to Duke, Maluach was part of the NBA Academy Africa and is projected to be a first-round pick in the NBA draft later this year, according to many analysts.
Despite the potentially daunting circumstances, Maluach remains optimistic about the future. In a 2024 interview with BBC Sport Africa, he articulated his fervor for basketball, stating, "Basketball means a big thing to me. I believe it's a gift God gave me to impact other people's lives and to change my family's life. The orange ball has taken me so far."
That being said, Maluach's current student status is less likely to be affected, provided he maintains his good standing with Duke. However, potential challenges to future visa renewals or adjustments could present obstacles that stretch beyond basketball. While the U.S. has yet to take immediate action to deport Maluach or similar individuals with valid student visas, broader implications for other South Sudanese individuals should not be overlooked.
- Despite the ongoing diplomatic tensions, CNN has reached out to Duke for comment on Maluach's future, considering the potential impact on his visa status in the United States.
- Maluach, the Duke University basketball sensation and a promising first-round NBA draft pick, has been optimistic about his future despite the uncertainties brought by the revocation of visas for South Sudanese passport holders.
- In 2024, Maluach expressed his passion for basketball in an interview with BBC Sport Africa, acknowledging its role in his life, stating, "Basketball means a big thing to me. I believe it's a gift God gave me to impact other people's lives and to change my family's life. The orange ball has taken me so far."
