When to watch teenage phenom Khaman Maluach in the FIBA World Cup

The FIBA World Cup tipped off today with the first slate of games on the tournament schedule.

Team USA is the favorite to win the event and warmed up with some spirited scrimmages against a select team led by Cade Cunningham.

The talent is far more spread around the world in the modern game, as the NBA has done an admirable job of increasing their reach in Europe, Asia and more recently in Africa with the establishment of the NBA Academy Africa in Senegal.

One of the top prospects from the Academy will be suiting up for South Sudan, as it was announced that 16-year-old Khaman Maluach will be on the roster, making him one of the youngest players to take part in the event.

FIBA World Cup schedule: When to watch teenage phenom Khaman Maluach

If you’ve not heard of Khaman Maluach yet, you will soon, as the 7-foot-2 16-year-old has been wowing scouts who think he could be one of the top picks in the 2025 NBA Draft.

As you can see from these highlights, Maluach is very skilled for his age and size and certainly doesn’t look like a typical teenager, as he has a filled-out frame and carries it well.

He moves well for his size, has active hands and can shoot a little, so it won’t be long before we’ll start hearing comparisons between him and Victor Wembanyama, especially if Maluach gets on the court for South Sudan and makes some plays.

South Sudan doesn’t play until tomorrow and you can check the full schedule here for your particular time zone.

While the FIBA World Cup will feature some of the best current stars in the NBA, it will also showcase future prospects from around the world, including young players from NBA Academy Africa, many of whom are getting their first chance on the big international stage.