Arthur Kaluma
Arthur Kaluma https://x.com/LALMuse/status/1938445800129851791

In one of the most compelling post-draft twists this year, the Arthur Kaluma draft saga has taken a promising turn. Despite being passed over in the 2025 NBA Draft, Kaluma has landed a chance to prove his worth with one of the league's most storied franchises — the Los Angeles Lakers. The 6'7" forward out of Texas has signed an Exhibit 10 contract, a training camp deal that offers a shot at cracking the NBA roster or developing in the G League for a potential call-up.

This move follows a productive collegiate career that spanned four seasons and three major basketball programmes: Creighton, Kansas State, and Texas. While his name wasn't called on draft night, Kaluma's stats and physical tools tell a different story. He averaged 12.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, and shot nearly 36% from three-point range in his final year with the Longhorns, all numbers that reflect growth, adaptability, and untapped potential.

From Three Colleges to the City of Angels

Kaluma's journey is anything but ordinary. Once a top-50 high school recruit from Glendale, Arizona, he moved from Creighton to Kansas State and finally to Texas, becoming a seasoned and battle-tested player along the way. Each transition sharpened different parts of his game. At Kansas State, he enjoyed his highest scoring season, averaging 14.4 points. At Texas, he embraced a more balanced role, rounding out his skill set and displaying strong defensive instincts and an improving outside shot.

NBA scouts and coaches took notice, especially of his 7'1" wingspan, switchable defence, and ability to knock down shots under pressure. These traits are highly valued in today's positionless, fast-paced league. Kaluma's standout performance at the G-League Elite Camp only boosted his profile. Yet, the draft came and went without his name called, a surprising outcome, considering his rising momentum.

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Why the Lakers May Have Found a Hidden Gem

The Lakers are known for giving second chances to overlooked talent, and Kaluma fits their mould of hard-nosed, versatile players. The Exhibit 10 contract he signed allows him to fight for a roster spot in training camp or potentially earn a two-way contract. Even if waived, he can earn up to $85,000 for joining the South Bay Lakers, the team's G League affiliate.

Kaluma's ability to guard multiple positions, stretch the floor, and rebound effectively could be exactly what the Lakers need off the bench. 'My calling card in the NBA is going to be playing defence and knocking down open shots,' Kaluma said in a pre-draft interview. He understands his role and is ready to contribute in the ways teams value most.

With veteran mentors around and a system that rewards energy and effort, Kaluma may have found the ideal landing spot.

Betting on Himself, Again

The Arthur Kaluma draft story is far from over. As the Summer League approaches, all eyes will be on the undrafted Longhorn hoping to earn a long-term NBA home. Few players bring Kaluma's mix of experience, physicality, and hunger to prove themselves. While his journey has taken detours, it has also built resilience — a trait that often separates the forgotten prospects from the league's surprise success stories.

Should Kaluma impress during the offseason, he could force the Lakers' hand in offering a full contract. If not, the G League offers a platform to keep improving and bide time for his NBA breakthrough. Either way, the Arthur Kaluma draft snub is shaping up to be one of the offseason's more intriguing storylines, and possibly its most rewarding.

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