Tragedy struck the Maluach family over the weekend following shocking news about Duke basketball star Khaman Maluach’s immigration status. The 7-foot freshman phenom from South Sudan, who recently helped lead the Blue Devils to the Final Four, now faces deportation after a sudden policy change by the U.S. State Department targeting South Sudanese nationals.
According to sources close to the family, the devastating news triggered a serious medical emergency back home. Khaman’s father, Samuel Maluach, reportedly collapsed upon hearing that his son’s student visa had been revoked, potentially forcing him to leave the country within days.
“He was so proud of what Khaman was achieving,” said a family spokesperson in Juba. “When the call came and he heard his son might be forced to leave Duke and the U.S., it was too much for him. He lost consciousness and had to be rushed to the hospital.”
Medical staff in Juba confirmed Mr. Maluach is in stable condition but remains under observation.
Khaman, who declined to speak to reporters after Duke’s 70–67 Final Four loss to Houston, was visibly shaken on the sidelines. A Duke team official shared that the young star was informed of his father’s condition shortly before the game tipped off.
“We’re doing everything we can to support Khaman, both emotionally and legally,” said Duke University spokesman Frank Tramble. “This situation is heartbreaking, and we’re working with immigration attorneys and the NCAA to find a solution.”
The U.S. State Department has yet to comment on individual cases but maintains that the visa revocation is a matter of diplomatic policy linked to South Sudan’s lack of cooperation with deportations.
As the nation watches closely, the fate of one of college basketball’s brightest stars — and his family — hangs in the balance.
