Kobe Bufkin 2023 NBA Draft Profile (Combine Results, Measurements and Scouting Report for Michigan Breakout)

Michigan guard Kobe Bufkin enters the 2023 NBA Draft as one of the clear-cut top prospects available. Boasting a great burst, along with underrated speed and a notable basketball IQ, the potential is there for Bufkin to become a star at the next level.

Here's everything you need to know about Kobe Bufkin before the 2023 NBA Draft.

Kobe Bufkin Scouting Report and Draft Prediction

Kobe Bufkin didn't take the route most top NBA Draft prospects do as it took him one year to find his way with the Wolverines. The 6' 4" guard broke out this past season, though, as his basketball IQ made him a favorite of head coach Juwan Howard. He showcased noticeable poise as a young baller and was able to finish contested drives as well as mid-range jumpers in a tough Big Ten Conference.

That foundation allowed Bufkin to take over as a reliable offensive option as he averaged 14.0 points per game on a 48.2% shooting percentage. He may not have been the main ball-handler for Michigan, but he wowed the crowd with his craftiness whenever he was asked to be that guy. Bufkin averaged 1.3 steals on the defensive end, which is notable as his quick hands made up for his smaller frame.

Bufkin is a prospect with some question marks, though, as his size could make him a player opposing offenses target with its bigger shooting guards. He will need to build some muscle in order to fight through screens at the top of the arc. The 19-year-old could also benefit from improving when it comes to getting the ball to his teammates in tight passing lanes. Avoiding turnovers will be crucial.

Overall, Bufkin showed incredible improvement throughout his college career and can hit both three-pointers (35.5%) and free throws (84.9%) at a reliable rate. That gives him a safe floor in the NBA for years to come. The Oklahoma City Thunder line up as a landing spot as they can afford to let Bufkin take his time in adjusting to the NBA in order to reach his full potential as a change-of-pace guard.

Prediction: Oklahoma City Thunder (Round 1, 12th overall)

Kobe Bufkin NBA Draft Combine Results

Kobe Bufkin Michigan Stats

Kobe Bufkin Michigan Highlights

What is Kobe Bufkin's vertical?

Kobe Bufkin has a reported 36-inch vertical, which allows him to stay competitive in the lane despite his lighter frame. Along with his speed, Bufkin has the physical tools to make an impact in the NBA.

How tall is Kobe Bufkin?

Kobe Bufkin measured 6' 4.25" without shoes at the 2023 NBA Draft Combine. Michigan lists the guard at 6' 4", which gives the indication that Bufkin's height is neither an advantage nor a disadvantage.

What is Kobe Bufkin's wingspan?

Kobe Bufkin's wingspan was measured at 6' 7.75" at the 2023 NBA Draft Combine. It's a bit below the NBA average, but that is to be expected of a guard that makes up for a lack in length with elite speed.

How old is Kobe Bufkin?

Kobe Bufkin is 19 years old, making him one of the younger prospects in the 2023 NBA Draft. He was born on Sept. 21, 2003.

Where is Kobe Bufkin from?

Kobe Bufkin was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and attended Grand Rapids Christian High School. A wrist injury derailed most of his senior season, but he was labeled a four-star recruit as well as a McDonald's All-American. He then committed to play college basketball at Michigan.

Larry Rupp is not a FanDuel employee. In addition to providing DFS gameplay advice, Larry Rupp also participates in DFS contests on FanDuel using his personal account, username phillyfan424. While the strategies and player selections recommended in his articles are his personal views, he may deploy different strategies and player selections when entering contests with his personal account. The views expressed in their articles are the author's alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of FanDuel. 

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