Uganda’s national basketball team forward Arthur Kaluma has officially declared for the 2023 NBA draft.
Kaluma who plies his trade with Creighton University’s Blue Jersey (United States College Basketball), made the announcement on Sunday.
“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.
The move is a bold step for Kaluma who wants to make his dream of playing in the NBA a reality.
Note: 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 averaged 11.8 points, 6.0 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game this season for Creighton, an improvement from the previous season where he averaged 10.4 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.3 assists.
His Creighton side lost to San Diego State in the Elite Eight round of the NCAA Tournament. It’s strong to note that his brother Adam Seiko plays for San Diego.
“I am beyond grateful for the love and support that has helped me reach this point in my basketball journey. First and foremost I would like to thank God for his blessings and guidance throughout my life,” Kaluma said.
“My family, thank you for your unconditional support, love and guidance. I am blessed to have such an amazing group of people in my corner.
“To all the coaches and trainers who have helped shape me into the player I am today, thank you for your dedication and hard work.
“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.”
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.
Great Decision – Albert Ahabwe
National team (Silverbacks) manager Albert Ahabwe has described Kaluma’s move as a ‘great decision.’
“I think it’s a great decision for him to go now after two good seasons at Creighton,” Ahabwe told The-SportsNation.
“No better time than now. Most draft boards have him going late in the second round but I’m hopeful someone will see the potential and take him a little higher. I just hope he lands in a great situation.”
Kaluma played for the Silverbacks in AfroBasket 2021 in Kigali, Rwanda.
Kaluma is set to become the second Silverbacks player to feature in the NBA after Ishmail Wainright who plays for the Phoenix Suns.
“For Uganda, it means another player in the league once he gets in and that can only be a good thing for our team.
“And an inspiration for the kids that look up to players like him. It shines a bigger light on our game.”
