Arthur Kaluma’s Lakers Journey: From Undrafted to Unfazed… Read more…
In a summer defined by blockbuster deals and marquee signings, the Los Angeles Lakers quietly added a promising and determined young forward to their roster: Arthur Kaluma. Though undrafted in the 2025 NBA Draft, Kaluma quickly caught the eye of Lakers scouts and earned a training camp invitation via an Exhibit 10 contract—a move that might eventually pay off in gold.
Kaluma may not have the spotlight yet, but his combination of size, athleticism, and hunger to prove himself could make him one of the offseason’s most intriguing underdog stories.
🇺🇬 A Journey of Grit and Growth
Born in Irving, Texas, to Ugandan parents, Kaluma has always carried himself with maturity beyond his years. His roots, humility, and tireless work ethic have defined his path through high school, college, and now the pros.
Kaluma first rose to national prominence as a highly regarded recruit out of Dream City Christian School. He committed to Creighton University, where he made an immediate impact with his length, defense, and rebounding. After two solid seasons, he transferred to Kansas State in 2024 for his junior year, seeking a new challenge in the rugged Big 12 Conference.
His college career finished with averages of:
- 11.3 points
- 6.0 rebounds
- 1.2 assists
- 46% FG, 34% 3P
Though his shooting mechanics remain a work in progress, Kaluma showed flashes of being a two-way forward capable of defending both forward spots and creating in transition.
🧪 Exhibit 10 Deal: A Proving Ground
The Lakers signed Kaluma to an Exhibit 10 contract, a one-year non-guaranteed deal that gives him a chance to participate in training camp. If waived, the contract also allows him to earn a bonus (up to $75,000) if he joins the South Bay Lakers, the team’s G League affiliate.
This path, while difficult, has become increasingly common for high-upside prospects. Players like Austin Reaves and Alex Caruso once walked similar roads—proving themselves through hustle, smart play, and patience.
“We see something real in Arthur,” said Lakers summer league coach Miles Simon. “He’s raw, sure—but he has the tools. Long, athletic, and fearless. He’s not just happy to be here—he’s here to earn it.”
🔍 Strengths: Defense, Rebounding & Athleticism
Kaluma’s standout trait is his defensive versatility. At 6’7” with a 7’0” wingspan, he can switch across multiple positions, guard on the perimeter, and protect the rim in help coverage. During the 2025 Summer League, he made a strong impression with:
- 2 steals per game
- 1 block per game
- Strong closeouts and off-ball awareness
Offensively, Kaluma thrives in transition and cutting action. He’s a willing screen-setter and excels at crashing the glass. His ability to score without needing the ball makes him an ideal glue guy on a team that already features dominant scorers.
Though not a knockdown shooter, he’s shown improvement in spot-up threes and midrange pull-ups. If he can elevate his shooting to league average, his role in the NBA could expand dramatically.
⚙️ How Kaluma Fits with the Lakers’ System
On paper, Kaluma fills a gap the Lakers have struggled to consistently address: wing depth and defensive energy off the bench.
While players like Taurean Prince, Cam Reddish, and Troy Brown Jr. previously filled similar roles with varying success, Kaluma’s motor and length give him a unique edge. He could potentially develop into a specialist defender capable of giving LeBron or AD brief rest minutes while holding his own defensively.
Coach Darvin Ham values positionless defense and athleticism—two areas where Kaluma already excels. His presence could be particularly valuable against high-scoring wings or when the Lakers go small with Anthony Davis at center.
🎯 The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunity
For Kaluma to make the Lakers’ final roster, he’ll need to shine in training camp and the preseason. He must prove that he can:
- Consistently hit open threes
- Stay out of foul trouble on defense
- Make the right reads in the half-court offense
Even if waived, a strong showing almost guarantees a spot on the South Bay Lakers, where he can continue developing under the organization’s watchful eye. And given the team’s track record with undrafted talent, that’s not a bad outcome.
The Lakers have one or two open roster spots, and Kaluma’s contract flexibility makes him a cost-effective option if the team seeks young, defensive-minded contributors over veterans.
📣 Kaluma Speaks: “I’m Ready for War”
In an interview after his summer league debut, Kaluma’s confidence was clear.
“I’ve been doubted before. I’ve been overlooked. That’s fine,” he said. “I know what I bring. I’m here to work. I’m here to defend. I’m ready for war.”
Those words echoed through Lakers circles—a reminder that hunger, not hype, often fuels the strongest fire.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Arthur Kaluma isn’t expected to be the next superstar in purple and gold. But he represents something every championship team needs: toughness, hustle, and untapped potential.
If he continues to grow, works within the system, and finds his shooting rhythm, Kaluma could transition from Exhibit 10 to a two-way contract—or even a guaranteed NBA deal. It’s a long road, but one he’s clearly prepared to walk.
In a league where raw talent often meets the unforgiving grind of development, Arthur Kaluma is poised to prove that being undrafted is just the beginning—not the end.
Keep an eye on Kaluma during training camp and preseason action as the Lakers evaluate their young core for the 2025–26 campaign.
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