This week is crucial for players preparing for the 2025 NBA Draft, and even though the draft itself doesn't take place until June 25, every moment from now on could determine their future.

The first part is the NBA draft combine which will kick off this Sunday, when many top new stars from the NCAA will gather together to show their physical fitness and competitive level to NBA teams in a live broadcast on ESPN and ESPN2.

Among the many hot rookies, Duke University's Kaman Maruachi is undoubtedly the most eye-catching one. The 7-foot-2 South Sudanese center not only has rare physical talents and defensive coverage, but is also known for his high energy and high fighting spirit.

Recently, NBA's official social media "NBA Future Starts Now" shared a video of Maruachi. When asked, "Who is your favorite NBA player?", he answered without hesitation: "Joel Embiid and Giannis Antetokounmpo."

Prior to joining Duke, Maruachi played for the City Oilers club in Uganda in the 2024 Basketball Africa League (BAL), averaging 17.5 points and 13.5 rebounds per game (first in the league), showing great potential.

In the 2024-25 season, Maruachi played 39 games for Duke, helping the Blue Devils reach the NCAA Final Four.

In the end, Duke finished with an impressive record of 35 wins and 4 losses, and announced that many core players, including Maruachi, would go to the professional arena. The Blue Devils, coached by head coach Jon Scheyer, became one of the most dominant college teams in recent years.

According to the latest mock draft by USA Today, Maruachi is predicted to be selected at the ninth pick. If this comes true, Duke will have three players in the top ten. In addition to Maruachi, Cooper Flagg and Jared McCain may also be selected early.