Uganda’s Kaluma enters 2023 NBA draft
Monday, April 24, 2023
Uganda's national basketball team forward Arthur Kaluma-courtesy

Ugandan international basketball player Arthur Kaluma has announced his decision to officially enter the 2023 NBA draft.

The 21-year-old forward who plies his trade with Creighton University’s Blue Jersey (United States College Basketball), made the announcement on Sunday.

Kaluma who played for the Silverbacks of Uganda during the AfroBasket 2021 in Kigali, Rwanda, is set to become the second Ugandan player to feature in the NBA after Ishmail Wainright who plays for the Phoenix Suns.

"After much prayer and thoughtful consideration, I have decided to enter the 2023 NBA Draft, I am excited to take this next step in my basketball journey and look forward to what the future holds,” Kaluma said.

"I am beyond grateful for the love and support that has helped me reach this point in my basketball journey."

The move is a bold step for Kaluma who wants to make his dream of playing in the NBA a reality.

The NBA draft happens every year in June. It is where teams in the National Basketball Association (NBA) choose players who have never played in the NBA before. If a player has not played in college for four years, they must enter the NBA draft by declaring themselves eligible.

Kaluma has been in impressive form during his time at Creighton, averaging 11.8 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game this season, an improvement from the previous season where he averaged 10.4 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.3 assists.

"To my Creighton coaches, teammates and Blue Jay Nation, thank you for an unforgettable two years in Omaha. I am proud of what we accomplished together and will cherish the memories and relationships for a lifetime,” he said.

His Creighton side lost to San Diego State in the Elite Eight round of the NCAA Tournament. His brother, Adam Seiko, plays for San Diego.

Kaluma grew up in Irving, Texas, and attended Universal Academy. He transferred to Dream City Christian School in Glendale, Arizona before joining Creighton in 2021.