Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Kobe Bufkin

How Kobe Bufkin built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Kobe Bufkin is an American professional basketball player currently with the Los Angeles Lakers. A McDonald's All-American in high school, he played college basketball for the Michigan Wolverines, achieving third-team All-Big Ten honors in 2023. Bufkin was initially drafted 15th overall in the 2023 NBA draft by the Atlanta Hawks and played for them for two seasons before joining the Lakers.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

February 27, 2019: Scored 35 in season-ending loss

On February 27, 2019, Kobe Bufkin scored 35 points in a 71–63 Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) district semifinal season-ending loss to Catholic Central High School of Grand Rapids.

November 11, 2020: Signed with Michigan

On November 11, 2020, Kobe Bufkin officially signed with the University of Michigan. At the time of his signing, he was ranked as the 63rd member of the class of 2021.

July 3, 2023: Signed with the Atlanta Hawks

On July 3, 2023, Kobe Bufkin officially signed a rookie-scale contract with the Atlanta Hawks.

January 29, 2024: Posted 43 points for the Skyhawks

On January 29, 2024, Kobe Bufkin scored 43 points for the College Park Skyhawks, the NBA G-League affiliate of the Atlanta Hawks.

January 13, 2026: Signs with the Los Angeles Lakers

On January 13, 2026, Kobe Bufkin signed a 10-day contract with the Los Angeles Lakers after averaging 25.2 points for South Bay.

February 8, 2026: Signs two-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers

On February 8, 2026, Kobe Bufkin, the leading scorer in the G League, signed a standard two-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers following trade deadline roster moves.