Arthur Kaluma’s NBA dream didn’t begin the way many prospects envision it — with his name booming across draft night stages. But his journey is far from over. The former Texas Longhorn standout has signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Los Angeles Lakers after going undrafted in the 2025 NBA Draft, giving him a critical chance to prove himself at the highest level of basketball.
Kaluma, a 6-foot-7 forward with a 7’1″ wingspan, is now considered one of the most intriguing post-draft pickups. The Lakers, a team renowned for finding diamonds in the rough, are giving Kaluma a shot at earning a roster spot or developing with their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers.
A winding road through college hoops
Kaluma’s path to this opportunity wasn’t typical. Born in Glendale, Arizona, he was once a top-50 high school recruit who played for three different programs in four years: Creighton, Kansas State, and finally Texas. Each stop shaped different parts of his game.
At Kansas State, he posted a career-high 14.4 points per game. His final season with the Texas Longhorns showcased a more polished, all-around player — averaging 12.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, and hitting nearly 36% from beyond the arc. He demonstrated defensive versatility, rebounding tenacity, and a much-improved shooting touch.
Despite a strong showing at the G-League Elite Camp, Kaluma’s name was not called during the draft. Still, his NBA-ready physique, positional flexibility, and proven adaptability kept teams interested — and the Lakers were quick to act.
The Lakers’ low-risk, high-upside bet
The Exhibit 10 contract gives Kaluma a chance to fight for a roster spot during training camp or earn a two-way contract. If he’s eventually waived, he could still earn a bonus of up to $85,000 for staying with the South Bay Lakers, offering him a viable route to the NBA via the G League.
For Kaluma, defense and shooting remain his calling cards. “My calling card in the NBA is going to be playing defence and knocking down open shots,” he said in a pre-draft interview — a message that resonates well with today’s NBA priorities.
His physical gifts and defensive flexibility make him a potential asset in the Lakers’ system, especially under the guidance of veteran stars and coaching focused on development.
Betting on himself once more
Kaluma’s story is one of persistence. From transfers to being undrafted, he has consistently bet on himself — and won incremental battles. As the NBA Summer League looms, he now has a golden opportunity to make his case against other hungry prospects.
Should he impress, a full NBA contract could be on the table. If not, the G League offers a platform to continue refining his craft. Regardless of the outcome, Arthur Kaluma’s next chapter — from draft disappointment to L.A. hopeful — is one of the offseason’s most compelling storylines.
