Duke and Florida Players Share Journey from Africa to Final Four

SAN ANTONIO — As the NCAA Final Four approaches, four elite college basketball teams, Duke, Houston, Auburn, and Florida, are set to clash on Saturday evening. A compelling narrative emerges with two players from Africa, Khaman Maluach of Duke and Rueben Chinyelu of Florida, both fueled by their experiences at the NBA Academy Africa.

“We don’t have many programs. … We actually don’t have any other programs like NBA Academy Africa,” said Maluach, the 7-foot-2 center for Duke and a projected NBA lottery pick. He attended the academy starting at age 14. “It only takes like 24 players, or 22 players [at a time]. But it’s like millions of kids out there looking for that opportunity.”

Chinyelu, a pivotal player for the Gators, is also a product of the NBA Academy Africa, where he fostered a deep friendship with Maluach. Characterizing these connections, he remarked, “The brotherhood out here, it’s pretty strong. You have so many guys from different parts of Africa just leaving their home. You come to a new country that you haven’t been to. They don’t speak the language, they haven’t even tasted that food.”

Chinyelu experienced personal loss at a young age when he lost his father. He credits his basketball family and relatives back in Nigeria for their unwavering support. “Many of them will be trying to watch the game back home in Nigeria,” he shared.

The two athletes share lasting memories of watching March Madness together while attending the academy, dreaming of college basketball but never truly believing they would make it to the NCAA tournament, much less compete against one another. “It never really crossed my mind that one day I’ll be playing for Duke,” Maluach admitted. “I didn’t know I was going to go to college,” he added, reflecting on the improbability of competing in a Final Four.

Fast forward to today, and both players are on the brink of a historic matchup as Duke prepares to face Houston and Florida meets Auburn. The outcome of these games could lead to a monumental showdown between old friends.

“Rueben has always been like an older brother to me,” said Maluach. “He has always helped me out.”

The Gators have reclaimed their spot in the spotlight, making their first Final Four appearance in over a decade, notably after the departure of legendary coach Billy Donovan. Chinyelu’s contribution has been significant in leading the Gators through the tournament.

Florida’s Walter Clayton Jr. has played a pivotal role in the team’s journey, scoring 34 points, including key shots that sparked their comeback against Auburn in their semifinal victory. “He’s really stepped up and led the team,” Chinyelu noted.

The matchup between Duke’s historical efficiency on offense and Houston’s ferocious defense has fans on the edge of their seats. As the Duke versus Houston game kicks off, the anticipation builds for a potential showdown of Maluach and Chinyelu.