Khaman Maluach’s Test Against Victor Wembanyama Draws Dillon Brooks’s Trust

Khaman Maluach Victor Wembanyama became the matchup that defined the Phoenix Suns big man’s Saturday night. Maluach, a sophomore and the No. 10 overall pick, took on the San Antonio Spurs star and limited him enough to catch Dillon Brooks’s attention. Brooks later praised the defensive effort and made clear the team trusts Maluach in that assignment.

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Summer League foundation

Before the Wembanyama test, Maluach used NBA Summer League to show measurable progress. He led the event in rebounds and paced all centers in points per game. His shooting split sat near 50/40/80. Just as important, he improved at handling the physicality that comes with the center position. Those numbers and that growth gave the Suns a reason to keep evaluating him in larger roles.

What the Wembanyama matchup revealed

Saturday’s game gave Maluach his biggest test of the sophomore season. He matched up well with Wembanyama because of his wingspan, shot-blocking and a nearly identical frame. Maluach said he learned a lot from facing Wembanyama. He also said he studies how opponents play offense and carry themselves, an approach that fits a player still learning the league’s top matchups.

Brooks on trust and development

Brooks, who has a history of mentoring young players, joked about yelling at Maluach during the offseason. He described Maluach’s development as a process. But the trust was clear: Brooks said the team trusts Maluach to guard Wembanyama. He added that he may not need to take that assignment if Maluach does. The comments marked a shift from offseason instruction to in-game confidence.

Suns starting center

Maluach may start again Wednesday when the Suns travel to San Antonio. Coach Jordan Ott said the team will evaluate the starting center throughout preseason. The decision could be matchup-based. Phoenix is scheduled to play the Spurs about three more times, so the coaching staff will have repeated chances to assess how Maluach handles the same kind of size and skill.

What comes next

Wednesday’s game in San Antonio offers Maluach another opportunity to solidify his case for the starting role. The Suns have not settled on a permanent answer at center, and Ott’s evaluation process remains open. For Maluach, the path forward runs through the same defensive challenges he just faced.