Duke Basketball Star Khaman Maluach to be deported under new Trump policy? Here’s what we know

Duke University’s rising basketball star, Khaman Maluach, is facing possible deportation due to a new immigration policy announced by the Trump campaign, which targets nationals from South Sudan. Maluach, a South Sudanese freshman center, is currently studying in the U.S. on a student visa. The controversial move to revoke all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders stems from South Sudan’s alleged failure to cooperate with U.S. repatriation efforts. The policy, effective immediately, has sparked national concern — particularly in college athletic circles — over its impact on international student-athletes.

Maluach, widely regarded as one of the top prospects in college basketball, has had a breakout freshman season with the Duke Blue Devils. Known as “Man-Man,” the 7-foot-2 center began his basketball journey at the NBA Academy Africa in Senegal before moving on to professional stints in Uganda and his native South Sudan. His potential has already caught the attention of several NBA scouts, with projections placing him in the top 20 of the upcoming NBA draft. However, the new policy casts a shadow over his career, as deportation would prohibit him from returning to the United States — jeopardizing his education, basketball development, and draft status.

The new directive also halts entry into the U.S. for South Sudanese citizens, effectively trapping Maluach. He cannot safely leave the country without losing his legal ability to return, and he cannot receive visits from family members who remain overseas. Duke University has acknowledged the issue and is reportedly working with legal experts and immigration authorities to explore all possible options for Maluach and any other South Sudanese students who may be affected.

As of now, the U.S. State Department has not issued clear guidance regarding the status of student visa holders like Maluach. Legal scholars and international student advocacy groups have voiced concern about the broader implications this policy could have on non-citizen students pursuing higher education and sports careers in the United States. With the NBA draft just weeks away, Maluach’s immigration status adds a layer of uncertainty and stress to an already high-stakes period in his life.

Support from powerful allies could play a vital role in resolving the matter. Figures from both Duke University and the NBA — including Coach Mike Krzyzewski, Commissioner Adam Silver, and former players like Luol Deng — may step forward to advocate for a policy exemption or other legal remedies. Maluach’s draft projection, currently estimated between picks #5 and #21, makes his case especially urgent. Should he be drafted by a team outside the U.S., such as the Toronto Raptors, complications surrounding travel and reentry could intensify.

Until the NBA draft lottery on May 12, Maluach remains in legal limbo. While his on-court future is bright, his immigration status is now a source of national debate. Duke officials, legal advocates, and sports organizations are likely to increase pressure on federal officials in the coming days, hoping to ensure that this promising young athlete is not sidelined by a sweeping immigration policy that has left his American dream hanging in the balance.