The New Orleans Pelicans have signed guard Kobe Bufkin to a one-year training camp contract after the former first-round pick impressed the organization during NBA Summer League, according to multiple reports.
Bufkin was selected 15th overall by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2023 NBA Draft following a standout sophomore season at Michigan. Injuries and inconsistent playing time limited his opportunities early in his NBA career, and after stops with the Brooklyn Nets organization and Los Angeles Lakers, he entered Summer League looking to earn another opportunity.
The 22-year old made the most of his chance with New Orleans, emerging as one of the team’s top performers in Las Vegas. Bufkin averaged more than 20 points per game during Summer League, highlighted by a 30-point performance in his Pelicans debut and a 15-point outing against the Phoenix Suns. His ability to create offense and attack the basket helped him stand out despite New Orleans’ winless Summer League campaign.
At 6-foot-4, Bufkin offers the potential for versatility in the backcourt, capable of playing both guard positions. During his collegiate career at Michigan, he averaged 14.0 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.9 assists as a sophomore before declaring for the NBA Draft.
The signing adds another young guard to a revamped New Orleans roster that includes returning starter Dejounte Murray, 2025 first-round pick Jeremiah Fears and veteran Jordan Poole. Bufkin will now look to translate his Summer League success into a strong training camp and earn a place on the Pelicans’ opening-night roster.