The Phoenix Suns landed Khaman Maluash with the 10th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
What seemed like a calculated move was actually a perfectly orchestrated play by Klutch Sports’ Rich Paul.
Recently, Homecoming Network, which is documenting Paul’s journey with Klutch, shared a behind-the-scenes video. In the viral clip, Paul is seen communicating directly with the Suns’ owner, Mat Ishbia.
During the conversation, Paul emphasized Maluach as a prime target and assured him that he would have to make “some calls” to get the young prospect to Phoenix.
Here’s the conversation between Ishbia and Rich Paul:
Paul: “If you guys keep 10, I’mma mention a name and you tell me how much you like him. Khaman Maluach, if I can get him there.”
Ishbia: “A lot. That’d be my first choice.”
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
Paul: “OK, done deal. That’s all I needed to hear.”
Ishbia: “Do you think you can get there?”
Paul: “I’m going to try my best because you’re our first choice. If he gets past Brooklyn, then yeah. But let me make those calls so I can let you do what you need to do.”
Inside look at Rich Paul talking about Khaman Maluach before the Phoenix Suns drafted him at #10 pic.twitter.com/5joZjlJQzF
— Homecoming Network (@Homecoming_Net) June 28, 2025
However, this conversation makes it clear that Maluach was Ishbia’s first choice, which prompted Paul to express confidence in making it happen. With all the good, great influence he has on crucial decisions, Paul really delivered what he said.
Duke’s Khaman Maluach Looks Promising For Suns
Khaman Maluach, standing at 7-foot-2 with a 7-foot-6 wingspan, had a great freshman year at Duke University. He averaged 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game.
Along with the stats, he is said to be effective in pick-and-roll situations and on the offensive glass as well. The Suns could utilize him greatly as they are keen to enhance their big man roster.
Before arriving at Duke, Maluach’s basketball journey was quite unconventional. He only started playing at the age of 13 after being encouraged by a boda boda motorcyclist who recognized his size.
His path took him through the NBA Academy Africa in Senegal, where he became its youngest enrollee. He eventually represented South Sudan on an international stage, including at the Olympics.
At the time, the Suns really needed a strong center to step up their game, especially after a tough season where they struggled with rim protection.
Also Read: REPORT: Phoenix Suns Star Bradley Beal Is Officially Done
