Rob Pelinka

Pelinka is the son of Robert Todd Pelinka Sr., a former high school basketball coach who taught him the fundamentals of basketball.

Pelinka became a high school All-American basketball player at Lake Forest High School.{{cite news |date=November 4, 2004 |author=Sweet, David |work=Lake Forester |title=Catching Up With ... - Pelinka shines as agent to the stars |url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:LFRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=110D625C06390098&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2 |publisher=Newsbank |access-date=July 20, 2008 |url-access=subscription}}{{cite news |date=March 8, 2004 | author=Heuser, John |work=Ann Arbor News | title=Pelinka talks a good game - Former U-M player has to stay in touch as a sports agent| url= http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:AARB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1172FAF4694EB8E8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420| publisher= Newsbank | access-date= June 7, 2009|url-access=subscription}} Regarded as one of the best shooters in the Chicago area, alongside teammate Coley Brannon.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36D491A0F0F11&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Free throw contest missing on Niemann|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=January 10, 1987|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Bell, Taylor|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF6804E1E6D1070&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Lake Forest Grows In Stature, Victories|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=January 15, 1987|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Hanley, Reid|url-access=subscription}} the {{height|ft=6|in=3.5|abbr=on}} junior led Lake Forest to their first conference championship as an all-conference guard.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36D4D41B58C2F&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Sun-Times super 25|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=January 27, 1987|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Bell, Taylor|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36D56E781262E&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Sun-Times super 25|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=March 6, 1987|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|url-access=subscription}} However, the team lost in the first round of postseason play in 1987.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF682AADB9FECA1&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=New Trier Center Cools Lake Forest Late Surge|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=March 5, 1987|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Sullivan, Pat|url-access=subscription}} Pelinka also played in the Chicago pro-amateur leagues where he played against local stars such as Mark Aguirre, Tim Hardaway, Kevin Duckworth and Kendall Gill.

By his senior season, he was listed at {{height|ft=6|in=6}}, and moved to the point guard position from the shooting guard position in the absence of Douglass, who had graduated and joined future Big Ten opponent Wisconsin, as a starting point guard.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36D9B77DB8410&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Lake Forest's Pelinka hot shot with 3-pointer|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=December 6, 1987|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Pritzker, Hal|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFEFF75276B6CDB&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Douglass Didn't Follow Dad But Always Got His Support|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=March 9, 1991|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Milbert, Neil|url-access=subscription}} As a senior, Pelinka was a preseason selection by the Chicago Sun-Times as one of the top 50 Chicago metropolitan area high school basketball players and top five North Suburban players.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36D971622E7BC&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Chicago Area's Top 50 Players|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=November 18, 1987|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36D9747BE423E&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Conference previews|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=November 18, 1987|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|url-access=subscription}} However, he was not a national preseason top 500 pick by Street & Smith's basketball magazine, which may have been because his senior season marked the first season that the three-point shot was adopted by state high school associations and Pelinka was mainly a shooter.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7DDC4C77A683B&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Shooters Are In Demand - 3-Point Rule Gives The Little Guy A Shot At The Big Time|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=April 10, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Sullivan, Paul|url-access=subscription}} Furthermore, scouts such as Chicago-based David Kaplan, who questioned his true height and dribbling ability, doubted whether he was talented enough to play for either of his targeted colleges (Michigan and Notre Dame) even in late December of his senior year despite his having had multiple 30-point efforts already.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DA0A72F4F14&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Hambric's manifesto: 'no access' - Simeon coach insists on barring team from media|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=December 27, 1987|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Bell, Taylor|url-access=subscription}}

During the four-game December 1987 Elgin tournament, in which he was named MVP, Pelinka made all 41 of his free throws and recorded a tournament record 139 points, including 45 in one game.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DA192A78A30&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Hot Pelinka can't save Lake Forest|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=December 31, 1987|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=McDonald, Sean|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DA11041B5CD&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Lk. Forest, Weber in triumphs|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=December 29, 1987|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=McDonald, Sean|url-access=subscription}} Pelinka's streak of consecutive free throws made ended at 45,{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DAC49B2992D&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=De Sales, Leo keep rolling|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=January 9, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Mulligan, Mike|url-access=subscription}} but later recounts showed he had 42 free throws in the tournament and 46 consecutive overall, which ranked fourth in Illinois high school basketball history at the time of his graduation.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB372C65C6F1124&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=High School Leaders|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=January 19, 1990|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|url-access=subscription}} After his tournament performance, Pelinka responded through the press to a scout who felt he might be limited to Division II or mid-major programs such as William & Mary that since he was able to score 45 points against a player committed to play for DePaul, he could succeed at the Division I high-major level.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DAAA342C8B4&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Newark's Olson is making his mark|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=January 3, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Bell, Taylor, Bill Figel, Mike Mulligan, and Mark Potash|url-access=subscription}} He had only been recruited by William & Mary, Navy, Wisconsin-Green Bay and Ivy League schools before his tournament performance. Afterwards, at least three Big Ten Conference schools showed interest—Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin—although no scouts were allowed to attend any games before February 8.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DAD6C3D6651&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=L. Forest's Pelinka an ex-sleeper|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=January 14, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Potash, Mark|url-access=subscription}}

By the beginning of February of his senior year, Pelinka was listed as one of the top ten Class AA (the larger school class){{cite web|url=http://www.ihsa.org/school/index.htm|title=IHSA Member Schools|access-date=July 21, 2008|publisher=Illinois High School Association|archive-date=August 28, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080828073528/http://ihsa.org/school/index.htm|url-status=live}} basketball players in Illinois by Illinois High School Basketball magazine.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7DB884E6465BD&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Basketball|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=February 1, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|url-access=subscription}} By the time of the scouting deadline of February 8, when college scouts could start attending his games, Pelinka was averaging 30 points and 10 rebounds per game; Illinois, Michigan, Notre Dame and North Carolina showed interest in him.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7DBC24CD0119F&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Lake Forest Star Getting Noticed - Pelinka Earns Recruiters' Attention|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=February 8, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Sullivan, Paul|url-access=subscription}} Even previously doubtful scout Kaplan noted that of the players who waited until the April signing period instead of signing in November, Pelinka was one of the best in the Chicago area.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DB5B2922D36&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Pelinka lifts Lake Forest over Niles N.|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=February 13, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Mulligan, Mike|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DB858EAC726&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Oak Park's Robinson hits stride|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=February 21, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|url-access=subscription}}

At the conclusion of the season, Pelinka had a 30-point-per-game average that benefited from a 41% three-point shot percentage over the course of 208 attempts.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB5299CE99DAA48&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Byrdsong's Buddy System Gets U-D Juco Help|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=April 14, 1988|work=Detroit Free Press|url-access=subscription}} Pelinka was named to the post-(regular) season All-Chicago area top 20 players by the Chicago Sun-Times.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DBBA911FAF3&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Catholic League's finest is top talent - Nine unanimous choices highlight 1987-'88 squad|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=March 4, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Bell, Taylor|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DBBEFDD5231&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=All-Chicago Area Basketball Profiles|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=March 4, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|url-access=subscription}} He was named among the 20 Class AA All-state players in a class that included Eric Anderson, LaPhonso Ellis, Acie Earl, and Deon Thomas.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DC0F2CDC4FE&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Class AA All-State Profiles|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=March 18, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|url-access=subscription}} In addition to various all-star lists, Pelinka was selected to play for various regional all-star teams.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7DD48C589F17A&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=5 All-State Selections Will Play In All-Star Classic|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=March 25, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7DDD3041E4949&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Soirts|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=April 12, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author1=Hageman, Bill|author2=Bob Vanderberg|name-list-style=amp|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7E0A15F486253&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Trinidad-Bound Illinois All-Stars Looking For Travel Aid|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=July 15, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DDF20AA9731&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Bits|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=June 15, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Bell, Taylor|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7E00A8D4A99B0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=All-Star Game Offers Anderson-Ellis Rematch|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=June 24, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Temkin, Barry|url-access=subscription}} He earned a coveted spot in the Schlitz League, teaming up with Maurice Cheeks for Luster Premium Hair Products.{{cite news|url=https://www.si.com/nba/2018/04/17/lakers-rebuild-future-magic-johnson-rob-pelinka-free-agency-lonzo-ball|title=Summer of Showtime: Why All Eyes Will Be on the Lakers|access-date=July 18, 2009|date=April 17, 2018|publisher=Sports Illustrated|author=Jenkins, Lee|archive-date=April 17, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180417173709/https://www.si.com/nba/2018/04/17/lakers-rebuild-future-magic-johnson-rob-pelinka-free-agency-lonzo-ball|url-status=live}}

Pelinka's final decision came down to a choice between Illinois and Michigan.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DC4FA36AED5&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Bits|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=March 29, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author1=Bell, Taylor|author2=Dan Bickley|name-list-style=amp|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DC7226342CE&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=DePaul staff pointing for insurance players|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=April 4, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Bell, Taylor|url-access=subscription}} Pelinka chose Michigan because of its academically stronger law school and business school.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7DDAA1BA155D8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Lake Forest Basketball Star Picks Michigan Over Illinois|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=April 7, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Temkin, Barry|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7DDE26E8C1401&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Letters Of Intent|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=April 14, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|url-access=subscription}} After selecting Michigan, he had notable performances in his regional all-star games, including a 27-point performance in the annual City-Suburban all-star game.{{cite news|title=City-Suburban stars get their final shots|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DCBCD85EE62&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|url-access=subscription|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=April 17, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author1=Montgomery, John|author2=Clyde Travis|name-list-style=amp}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DD622EF78AE&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|url-access=subscription|title=All-Stars edge Soviets|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=May 21, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Lynch, Craig}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7DE31E68F90C3&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Northwest Indiana Stars Overcome N. Illinois|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=April 24, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Sullivan, Paul|url-access=subscription}}

In January 2009, Pelinka was one of two players who did not attend the twentieth anniversary reunion of the 1989 championship team.{{cite news|author=Snyder, Mark|date=January 18, 2009|url-access=subscription|title='89 Champs Honored At Halftime|work=Detroit Free Press|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=125DC57450F76240&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|access-date=June 3, 2009}} In February, Matt Vogrich broke Pelinka's Lake Forest High School scoring record. Vogrich followed in Pelinka's footsteps, playing as a freshman for the Wolverines basketball team in the 2009–10 season.{{cite news|author=Macro, Dino|date=February 12, 2009|title=Vogrich breaks Pelinka 's record|work=Lake Forester|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:LFRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1267744280D06790&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|access-date=June 3, 2009}}{{cite web|title=Matt Vogrich|url=http://www.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?Sport=2&pr_key=73163|access-date=June 3, 2009|publisher=Rivals.com|archive-date=June 2, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090602203524/http://www.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?Sport=2&pr_key=73163|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Matt Vogrich|url=http://michigan.scout.com/a.z?s=162&p=8&c=1&nid=3427845|access-date=June 3, 2009|publisher=Scout.com|archive-date=July 16, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716021814/http://michigan.scout.com/a.z?s=162&p=8&c=1&nid=3427845|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Matt Vogrich|url=http://insider.espn.go.com/ncb/recruiting/tracker/player?recruitId=66998&season=2009&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fncb%2frecruiting%2ftracker%2fplayer%3frecruitId%3d66998%26season%3d2009|access-date=June 3, 2009|work=ESPN.com|archive-date=April 22, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090422042502/http://insider.espn.go.com/ncb/recruiting/tracker/player?recruitId=66998&season=2009&action=login&appRedirect=http%3A%2F%2Finsider.espn.go.com%2Fncb%2Frecruiting%2Ftracker%2Fplayer%3FrecruitId%3D66998%26season%3D2009|url-status=dead}}

As a guard, Pelinka became the first Michigan Wolverine to reach three NCAA Tournament Final Fours during his Michigan Wolverines career.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFEC89D9C70CD50&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title='Fab' Also Applies To This Role Player|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=April 2, 1993|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Temkin, Barry|url-access=subscription}} He played in the 1988–89, 1990–91, 1991–92, and 1992–93 seasons; the team reached the championship game of the Final Four in three out of four of those seasons. As a true freshman member of the 1988–89 National Champions, his teammates included Glen Rice, Terry Mills, Loy Vaught, Rumeal Robinson, Sean Higgins, Demetrius Calip, and Mark Hughes.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1275D97ED0DDE2E8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Cover Story: When They Were Kings: 1989: Wolverines Had Talent - Then Proved They Had Heart - A Look Back At The Anniversaries of Two Historic NCAA Titles|access-date=June 3, 2009|date=April 1, 2009|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Jahnke, Krista}} As a redshirt member of the 1991–92 and 1992–93 national runners-up, his teammates included Chris Webber, Juwan Howard, Jalen Rose, Jimmy King, Ray Jackson (the Fab Five), and Eric Riley. He was one of several upperclassmen on the Fab Five teams and served as co-captain of the 1992–93 team.{{cite news|url=https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9E0CE4DD1331F93AA15750C0A964958260&n=Top/Reference/Times%20Topics/Organizations/U/University%20of%20Michigan|title=College Basketball: Southeast Retional; Michigan Saved By 'Forgotten' Player|access-date=October 22, 2007|date=March 22, 1992|author=Smith, Timothy W.|work=The New York Times|archive-date=April 7, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220407185240/https://www.nytimes.com/1992/03/29/sports/college-basketball-southeast-regional-michigan-saved-by-forgotten-player.html?n=Top%2FReference%2FTimes+Topics%2FOrganizations%2FU%2FUniversity+of+Michigan|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Pelinka, Klemme win Byers Scholarship|work=NCAA News|publisher=National Collegiate Athletic Association|date=March 31, 1993|page=6}} As a scholar, he was noted for having a grade point average that rivaled his scoring average.

During Pelinka's freshman season, Michigan was picked by many to win the Big Ten Conference and was ranked number one in the nation, according to some preseason polls.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB14644FAC409DE&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Illini Eye No. 1 Regional Seed|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=March 11, 1989|publisher=Newsbank|work=The State Journal-Register|author=Ruppert, Jim|url-access=subscription}} He was the only true freshman to play in either of the first two games of the season.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB52A499FA5EC01&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Wolverines' 'Ice T' A Refreshing Change|access-date=June 7, 2009|date=November 28, 1988|publisher=Newsbank|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Kornacki, Steve|url-access=subscription}} Pelinka's only start of the season came in the December 12, 1988 game against Holy Cross. This game followed the team's first loss of the season, which had come against Division II Alaska–Anchorage, after an 11–0 start and after which coach Bill Frieder benched three starters.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF78619C2B17CAD&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Only Illini's Slate Clean Going Into League Play|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=January 2, 1989|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Markus, Robert|url-access=subscription}} Pelinka posted his season highs in points (8), rebounds (5) and minutes (18) in this game.{{cite web|url=http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=511|title=Versus Holy Cross 12-29-1988 Jon Huntsman Center-Salt Lake City, Utah|access-date=July 20, 2008|publisher=Regents of the University of Michigan|archive-date=August 28, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110828003550/http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=511|url-status=live}} During a practice, Pelinka was knocked unconscious and lost two teeth.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7861E81BEA181&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=NU Freshman Center May Start Vs. Michigan|access-date=July 19, 2008|date=January 7, 1989|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Markus, Robert|url-access=subscription}} As the team entered the March stretch run, Pelinka and Calip were the only reserve guards backing up Robinson and Higgins.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB52A7A14124A6B&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=MSU's Top Scorer Likely Out Tonight|url-access=subscription|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=February 16, 1989|publisher=Newsbank|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Saylor, Jack}} The team went on to win the 1989 NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament against Seton Hall at the Kingdome in Seattle, Washington.{{cite web|url=http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/mayhem/brackets/historical/1989/DI|title=1989 Men's College Basketball Bracket|access-date=May 16, 2009|publisher=CBS Interactive}} When the team visited the White House, Pelinka held Rumeal Robinson's suit coat, while Robinson and United States President George H. W. Bush reenacted Robinson's game winning free throws.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB52AA046E45492&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=U-M's Robinson Makes Bush Toe The Line|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=April 13, 1989|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Kornacki, Steve|url-access=subscription}}

When tendinitis afflicted his knees,{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB52B126AC31C89&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=U-M's Vaught Speaks The Unspeakable|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=October 16, 1989|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Kornacki, Steve|url-access=subscription}} Pelinka redshirted the 1989–90 season. During his redshirt sophomore season, Pelinka was not called on to take many important shots. He did have an opportunity to take a 20-foot shot with five seconds left in what turned out to be a 76–74 loss to Texas on December 29, 1990, but he missed the shot.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF832EB63783C96&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Sports|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=December 29, 1990|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|url-access=subscription}} In this game, he played a season-high twenty-eight minutes in his only start of the season and first of his collegiate career.{{cite web|url=http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=473|title=Versus Texas 12-29-1990 Arizona State University Cactus Classic Tournament, Tempe, A|access-date=July 20, 2008|publisher=Regents of the University of Michigan|archive-date=August 28, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110828003531/http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=473|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB52C1E9B7E7325&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=U-M'S Final Shot Misses -- Texas Survives, 76-74|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=December 29, 1990|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Stoda, Greg}} Pelinka was also instrumental in setting up some key shots such as a pass to Calip during a frenetic sequence to tie Minnesota in the waning minutes of the game.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB52C36BA91DF17&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Big Start, Bigger Finish for U-M, 66-62|access-date=June 7, 2009|date=February 1, 1991|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Stoda, Greg}} The team finished with at 14–15 overall (7–11 Big Ten) record after losing to {{cbb link|1990|sex=men|team=Colorado Buffaloes|school=University of Colorado|title=Colorado}} in the first round of the NIT.{{cite web|url=http://www.mgoblue.com/auto_pdf/p_hotos/s_chools/mich/sports/m-baskbl/auto_pdf/bkm-postseason-nit|title=Postseason NIT|publisher=CBS Interactive|page=68|access-date=September 14, 2010|archive-date=October 1, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101001141251/http://www.mgoblue.com/auto_pdf/p_hotos/s_chools/mich/sports/m-baskbl/auto_pdf/bkm-postseason-nit|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.mgoblue.com/auto_pdf/p_hotos/s_chools/mich/sports/m-baskbl/auto_pdf/bkm-through-the-years|title=Through The Years|access-date=September 20, 2010|publisher=CBS Interactive|website=MGoBlue.com|page=44|archive-date=September 2, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100902071019/http://www.mgoblue.com/auto_pdf/p_hotos/s_chools/mich/sports/m-baskbl/auto_pdf/bkm-through-the-years|url-status=dead}}

During his redshirt junior year, he was joined at Michigan by the Fab Five, who were all true freshmen.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFEDEE392026570&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Down To Earth Freshmen Have Michigan Soaring|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=March 27, 1992|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Markus, Robert|url-access=subscription}} He was injured for part of the season.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB3738FF65B37F8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=The College Report|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=January 8, 1992|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author1=Cronin, Barry|author2=Toni Ginnetti|name-list-style=amp|url-access=subscription}} When he was healthy, he was an important reserve player.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB52D007174A8F1&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=U-M Will Try All Weapons On Ohio State's Jackson|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=February 1, 1992|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Stoda, Greg}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB52D2A2789056A&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=How Will Wolverines React Tonight If . . .|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=April 6, 1992|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Stoda, Greg}} After sitting out the first half, he scored the overtime opening three-point shot and made three of four overtime free throws in an 89–79 road victory against Michigan State at the Breslin Center on January 29, 1992.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFEDCA626A766AC&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Michigan's Talent Tops MSU In Overtime|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=January 30, 1992|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Milbert, Neil|url-access=subscription}}{{cite web|url=http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=431|title=Versus Michigan State 01-29-1992 Breslin Center, East Lansing, Mich.|access-date=July 20, 2008|publisher=Regents of the University of Michigan|archive-date=August 28, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110828003455/http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=431|url-status=live}} Pelinka had also contributed an earlier three-point shot as Michigan erased a thirteen-point deficit to force the overtime.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB52CF8C4420C3D&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Young Wolverines Rally From A 14-Point Deficit Webber, Rose Lead The Assault|access-date=June 7, 2009|date=January 30, 1992|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Saylor, Jack}} Pelinka also contributed his season-high nineteen minutes and a second-half career-high eleven points (eclipsed in his senior season) in a March 11, 1992 70–61 victory against Purdue at the Mackey Arena.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFEDE63DC4AD89B&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Mich. St. Runs Past Minnesota|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=March 12, 1992|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|url-access=subscription}}{{cite web|url=http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=441|title=Versus Purdue 03-11-1992 Mackey Arena, West Lafayette, Ind.|access-date=July 20, 2008|publisher=Regents of the University of Michigan|archive-date=August 28, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110828003517/http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=441|url-status=live}} Michigan head coach Steve Fisher credited both of these wins to Pelinka and also noted his two important three-point shots against East Tennessee State.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB52D236E746202&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Pelinka No U-M Palooka Link To '89 Title Makes Big Shots|access-date=June 3, 2009|date=March 26, 1992|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Kornacki, Steve|url-access=subscription}} The team lost in the final game of the 1992 NCAA Tournament.{{cite web|url=http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/mayhem/brackets/historical/1992/DI|title=1992 Men's College Basketball Bracket|access-date=May 16, 2009|publisher=CBS Interactive}} After the season, he went with the team on a 9-game 16-day European trip.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB52D398CF442C8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|url-access=subscription|title=Fab Five Run Again But European Trip Might Be Forced Fun|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=May 7, 1992|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Stoda, Greg}} According to press accounts, the team was homesick during the trip and Pelinka got sick from drinking tap water.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB52D3E92379FDD&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|url-access=subscription|title=European Trip No Vacation For U-M|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=May 18, 1992|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Ray, Roddy}}

The following season, Michigan returned its top nine scorers and began the season ranked number one in the Associated Press national ranking as Pelinka was part of a quartet of seniors backing up the Fab Five, who had become sophomores.{{cite news|url-access=subscription|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB52DA6EC47A39A&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=U-M At Top Of The Polls|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=November 17, 1992|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Stoda, Greg}} As a {{height|ft=6|in=6}} {{convert|200|lb|kg|adj=on}} fifth-year senior,{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4212C67BD422B&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=The Scouting Report|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=April 5, 1993|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|url-access=subscription}} Pelinka started back-to-back games twice during the season. Early in the season, he started in place of the injured Jackson, but Pelinka came down with the flu after two starts against Kansas and Eastern Michigan on December 30, 1992, and January 2, 1993, respectively.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4211641E23409&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Purdue, Michigan To Clash|url-access=subscription|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=January 7, 1993|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Spadafore, Jim|archive-date=January 19, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160119130923/http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info%3Asid%2Fiw.newsbank.com%3ANewsBank%3ACSTB&rft_val_format=info%3Aofi%2Ffmt%3Akev%3Amtx%3Actx&rft_dat=0EB4211641E23409&svc_dat=InfoWeb%3Aaggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=413|title=Versus Kansas* 12-30-1992 Neal Blaisdell Arena, Honolulu, Hawaii|access-date=July 20, 2008|publisher=Regents of the University of Michigan|archive-date=August 28, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110828003438/http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=413|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=383|title=Versus Eastern Michigan* 01-02-1993 Crisler Arena, Ann Arbor, Mich.|access-date=July 20, 2008|publisher=Regents of the University of Michigan|archive-date=August 28, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110828003150/http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=383|url-status=live}} During his other set of back-to-back starts against Ohio State and Iowa on January 26 and 31, 1993, Pelinka started even though Jackson played.{{cite web|url=http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=398|title=Versus Ohio State* 01-26-1993 Crisler Arena, Ann Arbor, Mich.|access-date=July 23, 2008|publisher=Regents of the University of Michigan|archive-date=August 28, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110828003344/http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=398|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=389|title=Versus Iowa* 01-31-1993 Carver-Hawkeye Arena, Iowa City, Iowa|access-date=July 23, 2008|publisher=Regents of the University of Michigan|archive-date=August 28, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110828003217/http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/gametot.php?gkey=389|url-status=live}} Pelinka set several season and career highs, including points (16), in the 72–62 home victory over Ohio State.{{cite web|url=http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/indgbg.php?pkey=367&season=1992-93|title=1992–93 All Games for Rob Pelinka|access-date=July 23, 2008|publisher=Regents of the University of Michigan|archive-date=August 28, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110828003732/http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/indgbg.php?pkey=367&season=1992-93|url-status=live}} The sixteen points included six free throws that were among the nine consecutive Michigan made in the final 2:13.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB5306B8572B971&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=U-M Goes With The Flow Buckeyes Fall, 72-62|access-date=June 7, 2009|date=January 27, 1993|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Stoda, Greg}}

During his senior season, Pelinka was an important role player for the team who drew the most charges on the team and contributed important defensive minutes as the sixth man.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4212C734ADE31&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Pelinka Makes Points On and Off Court|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=April 5, 1993|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Bickley, Dan|url-access=subscription}} During the 1992–93 season, he led all reserves in minutes and assists and was second in points and rebounds (to Eric Riley). Pelinka was also instrumental as a leader during the run to the Final Four. Having been the only member of the team in Seattle for the 1989 championship, when the 1993 team played its regional championship games in Seattle, Pelinka was able to show Webber the spot in the locker room where Rice had taken his pre-game nap.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB53099AAAD1A6C&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Score Aside, Patterson Is The Winner Colonials' Senior Guard Is Fast-Breaking Cancer|access-date=June 7, 2009|date=March 26, 1993|work=Detroit Free Press|author1=Stoda, Greg |author2=Steve Kornacki|url-access=subscription |name-list-style=amp }} During the Final Four weekend in New Orleans, Louisiana, Chris Webber wore Pelinka's 1989 Championship ring, which only fit on Webber's pinky finger,{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB530A0F927C6E7&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Repeat Of Ugly Scene Isn't In Webber's Plan|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=April 5, 1993|publisher=Newsbank|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Kornacki, Steve|url-access=subscription}} and slept with it under his pillow.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:PJSB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB6EBBD6A4FE129&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Friends Try To Care For Chris Webber|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=April 7, 1993|publisher=Newsbank|work=Peoria Journal Star|author=Lien, Dick|url-access=subscription}} During the national semifinal 81–78 overtime victory against the Kentucky Wildcats, Pelinka played in the clinching overtime period after King fouled out.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB530A0F2571005&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|url-access=subscription|title=Slowed-Down Game Tamed Wildcats Stalling Ford Wrecks UK's Blowout Streak|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=April 5, 1993|publisher=Newsbank|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Stoda, Greg}} Nonetheless, despite a pair of early three-point shots by Pelinka after Jackson got two early personal fouls,{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB530A18CF81DF6&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Pelinka's Prize: 'Love These Guys'|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=April 6, 1993|publisher=Newsbank|url-access=subscription|work=Detroit Free Press}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB530A16F4B6E61&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Tar Heels 77 Wolverines 71 Carolina Finer Calling Time-Out It Didn't Have Seals U-M-s Bitter Loss|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=April 4, 1993|publisher=Newsbank|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Stoda, Greg}} the team lost in the final game of the 1993 NCAA Tournament against North Carolina.{{cite news|url=http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/mayhem/brackets/historical/1993/DI|title=1993 Men's College Basketball Bracket|newspaper=CBS Sports|access-date=May 16, 2009|publisher=CBS Interactive}} When the team returned to Ann Arbor, Michigan for a rally at Crisler Arena the following day, Pelinka was one of only two Wolverines to speak to the crowd.{{cite news|url-access=subscription|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB530A1E994A9E1&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Moddy Blue Welcome Finally Turns To Cheers|access-date=June 6, 2009|date=April 7, 1993|publisher=Newsbank|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Parker, Rob}} After his senior season, he played in an NBA Summer Camp in Long Beach, California and considered offers to play professionally in Europe. At this time, he first met sports agent Arn Tellem and decided not to play basketball. {{As of|2004}} he remained in 15th place on the all-time Michigan games played list. Pelinka won the 1993 NCAA Walter Byers Postgraduate Scholarship award (NCAA Male Scholar Athlete of the Year).

After passing the Illinois bar examination and receiving his license to practice in 1996, Pelinka joined Mayer Brown. After two years at Mayer Brown,{{cite web|url=http://www.prosportsgroup.com/SportsAgentNews/Mar2004/News/pelinka.htm|title=Former U-M Player Has To Stay In Touch As A Sports Agent|access-date=August 20, 2008|date=March 8, 2004|publisher=prosportsgroup.com|work=mlive.com|author=Heuser, John|archive-date=October 15, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081015142057/http://www.prosportsgroup.com/SportsAgentNews/Mar2004/News/pelinka.htm|url-status=live}} Arn Tellem convinced Pelinka to become a lawyer for SFX management, and after two years at SFX, he became an agent. While with SFX, he worked with Tellem who represented Eddy Curry, Kwame Brown, Kobe Bryant and Tracy McGrady, all of whom went directly from high school to the National Basketball Association.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:ADHB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EDA7191B8C902A5&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Bulls will handle Curry, Chandler with kid gloves - Organization will make sure 18-year-olds make adjustment to life as - well as NBA|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=June 30, 2001|publisher=Newsbank|work=Daily Herald|author=McGraw, Mike|url-access=subscription}} Pelinka had become Bryant's agent by the time of the Kobe Bryant sexual assault case.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:ADHB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FE322A7CE9FE079&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Bulls' defense does the job in victory|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=October 11, 2003|publisher=Newsbank|work=Daily Herald|author=McGraw, Mike|url-access=subscription}} While at SFX, he also became the agent for several of his current clients.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FC4F5383706CDF3&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Maggette headed for Jazz|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=July 15, 2003|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FB12F24EAD177D5&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Kings even series; Game 7 in Dallas|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=May 16, 2003|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:SJRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=103BBCB647D082EE&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Oh, to be in Andre's shoes / Former Lanphier player expected to be top-10 pick|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=June 23, 2004|publisher=Newsbank|work=The State Journal-Register|author=Martinez, Marcia|url-access=subscription}} While at SFX in 2004, he was living in Santa Monica, California and dating a pediatrician. NBA agents earn about 4% of the salary and bonus that they negotiate for their clients.{{cite web|url=http://www.sportsmanagementworldwide.com/salaries.asp|title=Sports Management Worldwide|access-date=April 12, 2009|publisher=Sports Management Worldwide|archive-date=April 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090412051727/http://www.sportsmanagementworldwide.com/salaries.asp|url-status=live}}

Image:Kobe Bryant Free Throw.jpg shoots a free throw.]]

Pelinka then branched out on his own and founded The Landmark Sports Agency. Recently, he has represented several first-round lottery picks: sixth overall 2003 NBA draft selection, Chris Kaman, ninth overall 2004 NBA draft selection, Andre Iguodala, eighth overall 2005 NBA draft selection, Channing Frye, thirteenth overall 2007 NBA draft selection, Julian Wright, seventh overall 2008 NBA draft selection, Eric Gordon, and third overall 2009 NBA draft selection, James Harden, 4th and 13th overall 2010 NBA draft selections, Wesley Johnson and Ed Davis, 2nd overall 2011 NBA draft selection Derrick Williams, and Buddy Hield, the sixth overall pick in 2016.{{cite web |url=http://newsok.com/article/5493262 |title=Oklahoma basketball: Buddy Hield hires Kobe Bryant's agent |first=Ryan |last=Aber |work=OU Blog |publisher=The Oklahoman |location=Oklahoma City |date=April 21, 2016 |access-date=June 26, 2016 |archive-date=April 24, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160424072341/http://newsok.com/article/5493262 |url-status=live }}

Among the players he has formerly represented are DeShawn Stevenson and Fred Hoiberg. A Los Angeles resident who was raised in Illinois, Pelinka represents two players who, like him, played high school basketball in the Chicago area (Corey Maggette and Julian Wright) and a third who had been a high school star in Springfield, Illinois (Iguodala).{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:SJRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11AE78BF8B606638&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=McBride looks toward pro career|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=August 5, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=The State Journal-Register|author=Daniels, Matt|url-access=subscription}} He has represented several Arizona Wildcats players including Andre Iguodala and Channing Frye.{{cite web | date= September 19, 2006 | author= JonathanG | title= Lute! | url= http://www.truehoop.com/basketball-books-46352-lute.html | publisher= truehoop.com | access-date= February 21, 2007 | archive-date= December 2, 2006 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20061202134814/http://www.truehoop.com/basketball-books-46352-lute.html | url-status= live }} Pelinka is regarded as one of the world's leading sports agents according to Business Insider, who ranked him 5th in 2010.{{cite web|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/most-powerful-sports-agents-2011-11?slop=1#5-rob-pelinka-8|title=The 12 Best Sports Agents In The World: #5 Rob Pelinka|access-date=October 24, 2011|date=November 29, 2010|author=Lubin, Gus|work=Business Insider|archive-date=November 27, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111127080839/http://www.businessinsider.com/most-powerful-sports-agents-2011-11?slop=1#5-rob-pelinka-8|url-status=live}}

Pelinka is well known as the agent of Kobe Bryant, who retired at the end of the {{nbay|2015|app=season}} after 20 seasons as a perennial All-Star guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. In fact, some of his other clients have hired him because of this.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:PHIB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=127030AA2AF26668&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Sixers Notes:Iguodala in Bryant's long shadow|access-date=June 3, 2009|date=March 18, 2009|work=Philadelphia Inquirer|author=Fagan, Kate}} During the 2003 sexual assault case against Bryant, Pelinka spent a considerable amount of time with his client. He accompanied him on trips to Eagle, Colorado.{{cite web | date= October 10, 2003 | author= Jamie Colby, Carol McKinley, Rita Cosby, Catherine Donaldson-Evans and The Associated Press | title= Detective Details Alleged Rape in Kobe Hearing | url= https://www.foxnews.com/story/detective-details-alleged-rape-in-kobe-hearing | publisher= FOXNews.com | access-date= February 24, 2007 | archive-date= April 9, 2007 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070409001013/http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,99470,00.html | url-status= live }} It was Pelinka who confirmed the news of Bryant's second child.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=10DC77B8F2EA5510&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=NBA stars to be dads again|date=November 9, 2005|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|access-date=April 7, 2022|url-access=subscription}} In 2004, when Bryant was a free agent, Pelinka confirmed Bryant would remain in Los Angeles with either the Lakers or the Los Angeles Clippers while rumors were flying that he was going to sign with the Chicago Bulls.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=103D971195D1EDBD&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Bulls seriously courted Bryant|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=July 15, 2004|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Johnson, K.C.|url-access=subscription}} Subsequently, when Rudy Tomjanovich was hired to be the Lakers' head coach, he sent free agent Bryant and Pelinka a video package describing the things he has done for players at Bryant's position.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:SILB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=103CA7B019D0B213&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=B|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=July 11, 2004|publisher=Newsbank|work=The Southern Illinoisan|url-access=subscription}} A few days later, Pelinka negotiated a contract for Bryant to remain with the Lakers for $136.4 million over seven years.{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=103DEB30C61FB458&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Lakers lock up Bryant - Star guard signs 7-year contract|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=July 16, 2004|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Brown, Tim|url-access=subscription}} When Bryant demanded to be traded during the 2007 offseason, Pelinka confirmed that "Kobe would like to be moved."{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:NWRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=119EA00531AC04C8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Kobe keeps pressuring Lakers to trade him|access-date=July 20, 2008|date=June 20, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Northwest Herald|url-access=subscription}} He was also the godfather of Kobe's daughter, Gianna Bryant.{{cite web|url=https://people.com/sports/rob-pelinka-mourns-deaths-of-best-friend-kobe-bryant-goddaughter-gianna/|title=Lakers GM Rob Pelinka Mourns Deaths of 'Best Friend' Kobe Bryant and 'Sweet Goddaughter' Gianna|access-date=February 26, 2020|date=January 30, 2020|work=People|author=Mizoguchi, Karen|archive-date=February 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200226041235/https://people.com/sports/rob-pelinka-mourns-deaths-of-best-friend-kobe-bryant-goddaughter-gianna/|url-status=live}}

Eric Gordon was drafted seventh overall in the 2008 NBA draft.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/draft2008/|title=DraftNY08|access-date=June 27, 2008|date=June 27, 2008|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|archive-date=November 1, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081101032852/http://www.nba.com/draft2008/|url-status=live}} Sasha Vujačić, a 2008 restricted free agent, left his agent, Bill Duffy, and hired Pelinka to be his new agent in July 2008.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/fantasy/fantasy_playernews.jsp?date=07/19/2008&type=news|title=Fantasy/Player News|access-date=July 23, 2008|date=July 18, 2008|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC.|work=NBA.com|archive-date=August 2, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080802184932/http://www.nba.com/fantasy/fantasy_playernews.jsp?date=07%2F19%2F2008&type=news|url-status=live}} He had previously left Pelinka for Duffy.{{cite web|url=http://lakers.freedomblogging.com/2008/07/15/vujacic-switches-agents-again/|title=Vujacic switches agents again|access-date=March 14, 2009|date=July 15, 2008|author=Carr, Janice|work=Orange County Register|archive-date=December 1, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201174816/http://lakers.freedomblogging.com/2008/07/15/vujacic-switches-agents-again/|url-status=live}} Maggette signed on July 10 with the Golden State Warriors for $50 million over five years.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/wire?section=nba&id=3482145|title=Golden State signs veteran swingman Maggette|access-date=July 23, 2008|date=July 10, 2008|work=ESPN|archive-date=October 26, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121026122112/http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/wire?section=nba&id=3482145|url-status=live}} On July 21, Dooling was traded to the New Jersey Nets from the Orlando Magic in what was described as a sign and trade deal with no terms of the signing revealed.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/wire?section=nba&id=3499432|title=Nets acquire G Keyon Dooling from Magic|access-date=July 23, 2008|date=July 21, 2008|work=ESPN|archive-date=October 26, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121026122118/http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/wire?section=nba&id=3499432|url-status=live}} Dooling's 2008–09 cap hold (salary cap allocation) with the Magic was $7,192,000.{{cite web|url=http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-player-salaries/team/Magic/|title=Magic Team Salaries|access-date=July 23, 2008|publisher=DraftExpress LLC|archive-date=August 3, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080803010134/http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-player-salaries/team/Magic/|url-status=live}} On July 25, Vujačić, who had rejected a 3-year $12 million offer after receiving a qualifying offer of $2.6 million and had planned to accept an offer to play in Europe, signed a 3-year $15 million offer to return to the Lakers.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=3508742|title=After hearing offers from Europe, Vujacic signs deal to return to Lakers|access-date=May 12, 2009|date=July 28, 2008|work=ESPN|archive-date=July 1, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090701010835/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3508742|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-player-salaries/team/Lakers/|title=Lakers Team Salaries|access-date=July 23, 2008|publisher=DraftExpress LLC|archive-date=May 1, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501144243/http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-player-salaries/team/Lakers/|url-status=live}} However, after signing, some sources listed Vujačić as unaffiliated with any sports agent.{{cite web|url=http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Sasha-Vujacic-4724/stats/|title=Sasa Vujacic|access-date=March 14, 2009|publisher=DraftExpress LLC|archive-date=March 1, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090301040809/http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Sasha-Vujacic-4724/stats/|url-status=live}}

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The Philadelphia 76ers made Iguodala a qualifying offer of $3,800,625 for the 2008–09 season. This gave the 76ers the right to match any superior offer sheet signed by Iguodala and gave Iguodala the option to play under the terms of the qualifying offer for one season in order to be an unrestricted free agent afterwards. In 2007, Iguodala rejected a $57 million contract extension.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=3385950|title=Stefanski wants Cheeks, Iguodala to be part of Sixers' bright future|access-date=July 23, 2008|date=May 7, 2008|work=ESPN|archive-date=September 19, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080919131348/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3385950|url-status=live}} Iguodala had a 2008–09 cap hold of $11,401,875.{{cite web|url=http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-player-salaries/team/Sixers/|title=Sixers Team Salaries|access-date=July 23, 2008|publisher=DraftExpress LLC|archive-date=May 10, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080510120726/http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-player-salaries/team/Sixers/|url-status=live}} On August 12, the 76ers and Iguodala agreed to a six-year $80 million contract.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=3532139|title=Sources: Iguodala agrees to six-year, $80 million deal with Sixers|access-date=August 13, 2008|date=August 12, 2008|work=ESPN|author=Abbott, Henry|archive-date=September 29, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140929181850/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3532139|url-status=live}}

Gordon withdrew from NBA Summer League play with a strained left hamstring in mid July 2008.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=3485364|title=Clippers' Gordon injures hamstring, done with summer league|access-date=July 24, 2008|date=July 13, 2008|work=ESPN|author=Stein, Marc|archive-date=July 23, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080723150848/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3485364|url-status=live}} However, rookie first round draft picks are on a strict two-year pay scale with team options for the third and fourth year, according to the collective bargaining agreement. Gordon had signed a three-year $8.4 million contract with the Clippers in early July. The contract has a fourth year qualifying option.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/clippers/news/gordon_080702.html|title=Clippers Sign Eric Gordon|access-date=May 12, 2009|date=July 2, 2008|website=NBA.com|archive-date=March 7, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090307222441/http://www.nba.com/clippers/news/gordon_080702.html|url-status=live}}

Pelinka's clients made news off the court as Boozer filed for divorce and Bryant's former housekeeper filed suit against him in March.{{cite news|author=Siler, Ross|date=March 27, 2009|title=Jazz's Boozer files for divorce|work=Salt Lake Tribune|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:SLTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=127380D547058FC8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|access-date=June 3, 2009}}{{cite news|date=March 25, 2009|title=Former housekeeper sues Kobe Bryant, his wife|agency=Associated Press|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:APAB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=12777AFBCAF8B740&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|access-date=June 3, 2009}}

At the 2009 NBA draft, he represented third overall selection James Harden. Having represented Wright at the 2007 NBA draft and Gordon at the 2008 draft,{{cite web|url=http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/article/113105|title=BDA Sports Leads The Way With Five First-Round NBA Draft Picks|access-date=May 18, 2009|date=June 29, 2007|work=SportsBusiness Daily|publisher=Street & Smith|archive-date=April 7, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220407185258/https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Daily.aspx|url-status=live}} this marked the third consecutive year that Pelinka represented a high first round client. Harden signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder, but terms were not disclosed.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=4321388|title=Harden, Mullens sign with Thunder|access-date=July 14, 2009|date=July 11, 2009|publisher=ESPN|archive-date=July 14, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090714042816/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4321388|url-status=live}} For the 2009–10 NBA season, Wright's contract is at a team option of $2,000,040, Bryant and Boozer have player's options of $23,034,375 and $12,323,900 respectively and Frye's qualifying offer amount was $4,264,760. Prior to the June 30 decision deadline, Bryant elected not to opt out of his contract and was expected to sign a new three-year extension.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=4300227|title=Lakers, Bryant to work toward new deal|access-date=July 5, 2009|date=July 2, 2009|work=ESPN.com|archive-date=July 4, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090704203621/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4300227|url-status=live}} Also prior to the deadline, Boozer decided to exercise the final year of his contract with the Jazz.{{cite news|url=http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/06/30/SPE918GQLJ.DTL|title=Boozer opts for Jazz for another season|access-date=July 5, 2009|date=July 1, 2009|work=San Francisco Chronicle|archive-date=April 7, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220407185243/https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/Boozer-opts-for-Jazz-for-another-season-3227091.php|url-status=live}} The New Orleans Hornets exercised their team option on Wright.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/hornets/news/200809_Season_In_Review_Julian_Wright.html|title=2008-09 Season in Review: Julian Wright|access-date=July 5, 2009|date=June 1, 2009|website=NBA.com|author=Eichenhofer, Jim|archive-date=November 6, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106055343/http://www.nba.com/hornets/news/200809_Season_In_Review_Julian_Wright.html|url-status=live}} The Portland Trail Blazers decided not to make Frye a qualifying offer, which made him an unrestricted free agent, and prevented the Blazers from having the right to match the two-year offer he agreed to with the Phoenix Suns.{{cite web|url=http://blog.oregonlive.com/behindblazersbeat/2009/06/no_qualifying_offer_coming_for.html|title=Trail Blazers will not make a qualifying offer to Channing Frye|access-date=July 5, 2009|date=June 29, 2009|author=Quick, Jason|work=The Oregonian|archive-date=July 1, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090701001651/http://blog.oregonlive.com/behindblazersbeat/2009/06/no_qualifying_offer_coming_for.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=4319829|title=Source: Ex-Blazer Frye to Phoenix|access-date=July 14, 2009|date=July 11, 2009|publisher=ESPN|author=Ford, Chad|archive-date=July 14, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090714172400/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4319829|url-status=live}}

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Toward the end of the 2009–10 NBA season Pelinka negotiated a three-year extension for Bryant, committing him to the Lakers through the 2013–14 season.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/los-angeles/nba/news/story?id=5050933|title=Bryant signs for 3 years, nearly $90M|access-date=May 13, 2010|date=April 3, 2010|publisher=ESPN|author=Markazi, Arash|archive-date=April 6, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100406073922/http://sports.espn.go.com/los-angeles/nba/news/story?id=5050933|url-status=live}} Boozer becomes an unrestricted free agent when the 2009–10 season ends.{{cite web|url=http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700018041/Utah-Jazz-notebook-Carlos-Boozer-confident-Jazz-may-find-way-to-re-sign-him.html|title=Utah Jazz notebook: Carlos Boozer confident Jazz may find way to re-sign him|access-date=May 13, 2010|date=March 19, 2010|work=Deseret News|author=Buckley, Tim|archive-date=May 23, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100523211233/http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700018041/Utah-Jazz-notebook-Carlos-Boozer-confident-Jazz-may-find-way-to-re-sign-him.html|url-status=dead}} Fisher is also unsigned.{{cite web|url=http://www.draftexpress.com/agents/Rob-Pelinka-99/|title=Rob Pelinka|access-date=May 13, 2010|publisher=DraftExpress LLC|archive-date=May 15, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100515165507/http://www.draftexpress.com/agents/Rob-Pelinka-99/|url-status=live}} Pelinka has signed both Johnson and Davis who were chosen 4th and 13th respectively in the 2010 NBA draft. On July 14, the Lakers announced that they resigned Fisher to what was reported to be a 3-year $10.5 million contract according to ESPN.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/los-angeles/nba/news/story?id=5379991|title=Lakers have Blake, Fisher in fold|access-date=July 19, 2010|date=July 15, 2010|publisher=ESPN|author=McMenamin, Dave|archive-date=July 17, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100717031621/http://sports.espn.go.com/los-angeles/nba/news/story?id=5379991|url-status=live}} NBA.com reported that Boozer signed a 5-year $75 million contract with the Chicago Bulls.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/2010/news/07/08/boozer.bulls.ap/index.html|title=Bulls make it official, sign Carlos Boozer|access-date=July 19, 2010|date=July 8, 2010|website=NBA.com|archive-date=July 10, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100710202506/http://www.nba.com/2010/news/07/08/boozer.bulls.ap/index.html|url-status=live}}

In addition to 2011 NBA Draft prospect Williams, Pelinka had to represent unsigned Peterson and Vujacic; team option players Gordon and Harden and qualifying option player Wright following the 2010–11 NBA season.{{cite web|title=Rob Pelinka |url=http://www.draftexpress.com/agents/Rob-Pelinka-99/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110311224018/http://www.draftexpress.com/agents/Rob-Pelinka-99/ |access-date=May 14, 2011 |archive-date=March 11, 2011 |publisher=Draftexpress.com |url-status=dead }} Williams was selected 2nd overall.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/los-angeles/news/story?id=6698173|title=Derrick Williams picked No. 2 overall|access-date=June 23, 2011|date=June 23, 2011|publisher=ESPN|author=Barrero, Jim|archive-date=June 25, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110625163526/http://sports.espn.go.com/los-angeles/news/story?id=6698173|url-status=live}} O. J. Mayo signed with Pelinka in the offseason,{{cite web|url=http://blogs.commercialappeal.com/the_memphis_edge/2011/09/oj-mayo-has-new-agent-and-attitude.html|title=O.J. Mayo has new agent and attitude|access-date=October 24, 2011|date=September 22, 2011|work=The Commercial Appeal|author=Tillery, Ronald|archive-date=October 1, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111001074625/http://blogs.commercialappeal.com/the_memphis_edge/2011/09/oj-mayo-has-new-agent-and-attitude.html|url-status=live}} bringing Pelinka's client list up to 18 NBA players. On June 28, the Oklahoma City Thunder exercised team options on several players including Harden.{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/751564-nba-okc-thunder-pick-up-options-for-james-harden-eric-maynor-others|title=NBA: OKC Thunder Pick Up Options for James Harden, Eric Maynor, Others|access-date=December 29, 2011|date=June 28, 2011|website=Bleacher Report|author=Goss, Nicholas|archive-date=January 19, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160119130923/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/751564-nba-okc-thunder-pick-up-options-for-james-harden-eric-maynor-others|url-status=live}}

At the beginning of the 2011 NBA lockout, Pelinka, who represented 18 NBA players at the time, was considering putting together a touring team to play exhibition games in China.{{cite web|url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/la-xpm-2011-jul-02-la-sp-kobe-bryant-china-20110702-story.html|title=Kobe Bryant might take part in exhibition games in China|access-date=January 24, 2011|date=July 2, 2011|work=Los Angeles Times|author=Holmes, Baxter|archive-date=July 8, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708151314/http://articles.latimes.com/2011/jul/02/sports/la-sp-kobe-bryant-china-20110702|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2011/07/nba-lockout-clippers-eric-gordon-rob-pelinka-kobe-bryant-china.html|title=NBA lockout 2011: Clipper Eric Gordon's plans|access-date=January 24, 2011|date=July 6, 2011|work=Los Angeles Times|author=Dillman, Lisa|archive-date=July 11, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110711045003/http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2011/07/nba-lockout-clippers-eric-gordon-rob-pelinka-kobe-bryant-china.html|url-status=live}} During the lockout Bryant received offers to play for Virtus Pallacanestro Bologna that Pelinka negotiated.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/los-angeles/nba/story/_/id/7007793/los-angeles-lakers-kobe-bryant-offer-play-italy|title=Kobe Bryant has offer to play in Italy|access-date=October 24, 2011|date=September 23, 2011|work=ESPN|archive-date=October 22, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111022080124/http://espn.go.com/los-angeles/nba/story/_/id/7007793/los-angeles-lakers-kobe-bryant-offer-play-italy|url-status=live}} Although there were difficulties signing Bryant to play in October to due scheduling conflicts, Virtus made an offer worth over $3 million for Bryant to play in 10 games starting in November.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/los-angeles/nba/story/_/id/7119458/italian-team-now-eyes-november-kobe-bryant-games|title=Italian team chasing Kobe Bryant|access-date=October 24, 2011|date=October 18, 2011|work=ESPN|archive-date=October 20, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111020153758/http://espn.go.com/los-angeles/nba/story/_/id/7119458/italian-team-now-eyes-november-kobe-bryant-games|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/nba/top-stories/Continuing-NBA-lockout-gives-Bologna-Bryant-hope/articleshow/10317167.cms|title=Continuing NBA lockout gives Bologna Bryant hope|access-date=October 24, 2011|date=October 11, 2011|work=The Times of India|archive-date=October 13, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111013003820/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/nba/top-stories/Continuing-NBA-lockout-gives-Bologna-Bryant-hope/articleshow/10317167.cms|url-status=live}}

Vujacic signed a one-year deal to play with the Anadolu Efes of the Turkish Basketball League. His contract did not have an out clause if the NBA lockout was resolved early enough to salvage the 2011–12 NBA season.{{cite web|url=http://articles.businessinsider.com/2011-11-30/sports/30457780_1_sasha-vujacic-maria-sharapova-entire-nba-season|title=Maria Sharapova's Fiancee Is Now Marooned In Turkey For The Entire NBA Season|access-date=December 8, 2011|date=November 30, 2011|work=Business Insider|author=Manfred, Tony|archive-date=April 25, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425203145/http://articles.businessinsider.com/2011-11-30/sports/30457780_1_sasha-vujacic-maria-sharapova-entire-nba-season|url-status=dead}} On December 13, Williams signed with the Timberwolves.{{cite web|url=http://www.piercecountyherald.com/event/article/id/41466/|title=Timberwolves add Barea to the roster|access-date=December 14, 2011|date=December 13, 2011|work=Pierce County Herald}}{{Dead link|date=June 2022 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} 4-year veteran Wright and 11-year veteran Peterson did not sign with NBA teams.

In February, Durant left long-time agent Aaron Goodwin.{{cite web|url=http://www.slamonline.com/online/nba/2012/02/kevin-durant-leaves-longtime-agent-aaron-goodwin/|title=Kevin Durant Leaves Longtime Agent Aaron Goodwin|access-date=June 26, 2012|date=February 18, 2012|work=SLAM Magazine|archive-date=April 20, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120420024446/http://www.slamonline.com/online/nba/2012/02/kevin-durant-leaves-longtime-agent-aaron-goodwin/|url-status=live}} The following month he signed with Pelinka who represented his teammate Harden.{{cite web|url=http://www.slamonline.com/online/nba/2012/03/kevin-durant-rob-pelinka-aaron-goodwin-oklahoma-city-thunder/|title=Kevin Durant Signs With Agent Rob Pelinka|access-date=June 26, 2012|date=March 19, 2012|work=SLAM Magazine|archive-date=June 18, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120618160710/http://www.slamonline.com/online/nba/2012/03/kevin-durant-rob-pelinka-aaron-goodwin-oklahoma-city-thunder/|url-status=live}} Pelinka signed Dion Waiters.{{cite web|url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-287032877.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130125062059/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-287032877.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=January 25, 2013|title=Waiters Signs On With NBA Agent Pelinka|access-date=April 22, 2012|date=April 21, 2012|work=The Post-Standard|url-access=subscription |quote=Former Syracuse University basketball player Dion Waiters, who decided two weeks ago that he would enter this year's NBA draft after two years at SU, has signed with NBA agent Rob Pelinka. }} At the NBA Draft Combine, Pelinka had Waiters stop his workouts and skip the interview portions of the combine. There was speculation that he had a high draft position promise.{{cite web|url=http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/blog/_/name/katz_andy/id/8041798/quick-hitters-chicago-nba-draft-combine-college-basketball|title=Quick hitters from NBA draft combine|access-date=June 26, 2012|date=June 12, 2012|publisher=ESPN|author=Katz, Andy|archive-date=June 16, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120616081139/http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/blog/_/name/katz_andy/id/8041798/quick-hitters-chicago-nba-draft-combine-college-basketball|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.cbssports.com/nba/blog/eye-on-basketball/19304565/nba-draft-combine-dozen-winners-and-12-more-losers|title=NBA Draft Combine: Dozen winners and losers|access-date=June 26, 2012|date=June 8, 2012|work=CBS Sports|author=Goodman, Jeff|archive-date=April 7, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220407185241/https://www.cbssports.com/nba/|url-status=live}} Pelinka also signed Andre Drummond.{{cite web|url=http://www.cbssports.com/nba/blog/eye-on-basketball/19281292/nba-draft-player-agent-list|title=2012 NBA Draft: Player agent list|access-date=June 26, 2012|date=June 6, 2012|work=CBS Sports|author=Goodman, Jeff|archive-date=April 7, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220407185242/https://www.cbssports.com/nba/|url-status=live}} Waiters was selected fourth overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers and Drummond was selected ninth overall by the Detroit Pistons. At the end of the 2011–12 NBA season, Kaman,{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1177223-2012-nba-free-agency-5-big-men-miami-must-target-in-the-offseason/page/2|title=2012 NBA Free Agency: 5 Big Men Miami Heat Must Target This Offseason|access-date=June 26, 2012|date=May 9, 2012|website=Bleacher Report|author=Pruitt, Joye|archive-date=May 12, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140512232605/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1177223-2012-nba-free-agency-5-big-men-miami-must-target-in-the-offseason/page/2|url-status=live}} Wallace,{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1236163-nba-free-agency-2012-the-hottest-under-the-radartargets-at-every-position|title=NBA Free Agents 2012: The Hottest Under-the-Radar Targets at Every Position|access-date=June 26, 2012|date=June 26, 2012|website=Bleacher Report|author=Shepard, Ernest|archive-date=June 29, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120629061922/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1236163-nba-free-agency-2012-the-hottest-under-the-radartargets-at-every-position|url-status=live}} Fisher{{cite web|url=http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/knicks/fisher_may_fit_with_knicks_fFkHmVddbkzes8uFVNJIbK|title=Fisher may be answer for Knicks|access-date=June 26, 2012|date=June 12, 2012|work=New York Post|author=Berman, Marc|archive-date=June 15, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615133108/http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/knicks/fisher_may_fit_with_knicks_fFkHmVddbkzes8uFVNJIbK|url-status=live}} and Dooling{{cite web|url=http://hoopshype.com/archive/rumors/2012/rumors-20120616.htm|title=HoopsHype.com Rumors|access-date=June 26, 2012|date=June 16, 2012|work=HoopsHype.com|archive-date=May 13, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140513011152/http://hoopshype.com/archive/rumors/2012/rumors-20120616.htm|url-status=live}} were unsigned. The New Jersey Nets had Bird rights to Wallace.{{cite news|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/nets/2012/06/gerald-wallace-to-test-nba-free-agency|title=Gerald Wallace to test NBA free agency|access-date=June 26, 2012|date=June 14, 2012|newspaper=Daily News|author=Bondy, Stefan|archive-date=June 18, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120618062421/http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/nets/2012/06/gerald-wallace-to-test-nba-free-agency|url-status=live}} Mayo, Gordon, Johnson and newly signed Austin Daye all had options.

Waiters signed a $16.7 million four-year contract (two years, plus two team options) that was based on the rookie wage scales determined by the collective bargaining agreement.{{cite web|url=http://www.cleveland.com/cavs/index.ssf/2012/07/cavs_retain_right_to_swap_pick.html|title=Cleveland Cavaliers sign draft picks Dion Waiters, Tyler Zeller to four-year contracts|access-date=July 19, 2012|date=July 5, 2012|publisher=Cleveland.com|author=Schmitt Boyer, Mary|archive-date=July 8, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120708221500/http://www.cleveland.com/cavs/index.ssf/2012/07/cavs_retain_right_to_swap_pick.html|url-status=live}} Drummond also signed a multi-year contract.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/8154928/detroit-pistons-sign-first-round-pick-andre-drummond|title=Pistons sign center Andre Drummond|access-date=July 19, 2012|date=July 10, 2012|publisher=ESPN|archive-date=July 18, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120718191605/http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/8154928/detroit-pistons-sign-first-round-pick-andre-drummond|url-status=live}} Kaman signed a one-year $8 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks.{{cite web|url=http://aol.sportingnews.com/nba/story/2012-07-11/chris-kaman-dallas-mavericks-dirk-nowitzki-brendan-haywood-nba-free-agency-2012|title=Chris Kaman agrees to one-year deal with Mavericks; Brendan Haywood to receive amnesty|access-date=July 19, 2012|date=July 11, 2012|work=Sporting News|archive-date=July 15, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120715053133/http://aol.sportingnews.com/nba/story/2012-07-11/chris-kaman-dallas-mavericks-dirk-nowitzki-brendan-haywood-nba-free-agency-2012|url-status=live}} Wallace re-signed with the Nets for 4 years and $40 million.{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/story/2012-07-16/gerald-wallace-jerry-stackhouse-deron-williams-nets/56262480/1|title=Gerald Wallace happy with Deron Williams, Brooklyn Nets|access-date=July 19, 2012|date=July 16, 2012|work=USA Today|archive-date=July 18, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120718131534/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/story/2012-07-16/gerald-wallace-jerry-stackhouse-deron-williams-nets/56262480/1|url-status=live}} The Memphis Grizzlies did not make Mayo a $7.2 million qualifying offer, thus allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent. He subsequently signed with the Mavericks for two years (with a player option in the second year).{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/dallas/nba/story/_/id/8172520/source-oj-mayo-agrees-multiyear-deal-dallas-mavericks|title=Source: O.J. Mayo, Mavs agree|access-date=July 19, 2012|date=July 17, 2012|publisher=ESPN|archive-date=February 16, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130216121903/http://espn.go.com/dallas/nba/story/_/id/8172520/source-oj-mayo-agrees-multiyear-deal-dallas-mavericks|url-status=live}} The New Orleans Hornets matched the Phoenix Suns' 4-year $58 million contract for Gordon.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/8166544/new-orleans-hornets-agree-match-phoenix-suns-offer-eric-gordon|title=Hornets bring back Eric Gordon|access-date=July 19, 2012|date=July 14, 2012|publisher=ESPN|author=Stein, Marc|archive-date=July 17, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120717033015/http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/8166544/new-orleans-hornets-agree-match-phoenix-suns-offer-eric-gordon|url-status=live}}

In April 2013, Pelinka was inducted into his high school's wall of fame.{{cite web|url=http://newssun.suntimes.com/sports/19260556-419/lake-forest-hoops-legend-rob-pelinka-inducted-onto-schools-wall-of-fame.html|title=Lake Forest hoops legend Rob Pelinka inducted onto school's Wall of Fame|access-date=July 7, 2013|date=April 5, 2013|work=Lake County News-Sun|author=Bonato, Bryan|archive-date=June 30, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130630050124/http://newssun.suntimes.com/sports/19260556-419/lake-forest-hoops-legend-rob-pelinka-inducted-onto-schools-wall-of-fame.html|url-status=live}} Durant left Pelinka in the offseason.{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/thunder/2013/06/07/kevin-durant-agent-jay-z-rob-pelinka-roc-nation-landmark-oklahoma-city/2402671/ |title=Kevin Durant leaves agent, may work with Jay-Z |access-date=July 4, 2013 |date=June 7, 2013 |work=USA Today |author=Amick, Sam |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130614015938/http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/thunder/2013/06/07/kevin-durant-agent-jay-z-rob-pelinka-roc-nation-landmark-oklahoma-city/2402671/ |archive-date=June 14, 2013 |url-status=dead }} Iguodala declined a one-year $16 million contract from the Denver Nuggets and met with a half dozen teams when the free agency period opened.{{cite web|url=http://theadvocate.com/sports/6404578-128/pelicans-aim-for-tyreke-evans|title=Pelicans aim for Tyreke Evans, Andre Iguodala|access-date=July 4, 2013|date=July 3, 2013|work=The Advocate|author=Williams, Darrell|archive-date=December 3, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203001552/http://theadvocate.com/sports/6404578-128/pelicans-aim-for-tyreke-evans|url-status=live}} He then signed a four-year $48 million contract with the Golden State Warriors.{{cite web|url=http://www.sfgate.com/warriors/article/Warriors-make-trade-sign-Iguodala-4649307.php|title=Warriors make trade, agree to deal with Iguodala|access-date=July 11, 2013|date=July 5, 2013|work=San Francisco Chronicle|author=Tafur, Vic|archive-date=July 9, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130709062619/http://www.sfgate.com/warriors/article/Warriors-make-trade-sign-Iguodala-4649307.php|url-status=live}} Mayo was also an unrestricted free agent.{{cite web|url=http://kstp.com/sports/stories/S3084376.shtml?cat=7|title=Wolfson: Saunders to meet with free agents Redick, Dunleavy Jr.|access-date=July 11, 2013|date=June 30, 2013|publisher=KSTP|author=Wolfson, Darren|archive-date=December 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202223209/http://kstp.com/sports/stories/S3084376.shtml?cat=7|url-status=live}} Pelinka's 2010 fourth overall draftee Johnson signed a one-year deal with the Lakers for the 4th year veteran's minimum salary of $916,099 after, teaming with Pelinka clients Bryant as well as Kaman,{{cite web|url=http://www.latimes.com/sports/lakersnow/la-sp-ln-wesley-johnson-lakers-20130718,0,3906933.story|title=Lakers' Wesley Johnson ready for 'most important' season of his life|access-date=July 26, 2013|date=July 18, 2013|work=Los Angeles Times|author=Pincus, Eric|archive-date=July 24, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130724025627/http://www.latimes.com/sports/lakersnow/la-sp-ln-wesley-johnson-lakers-20130718,0,3906933.story|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.dailynews.com/ci_23690469/lakers-have-high-hopes-wesley-johnson?source=most_viewed|title=Lakers have high hopes for Wesley Johnson|access-date=July 26, 2013|date=July 18, 2013|work=Los Angeles Daily News|author=Medina, Mark|archive-date=July 23, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130723072103/http://www.dailynews.com/ci_23690469/lakers-have-high-hopes-wesley-johnson?source=most_viewed|url-status=live}} who signed with the Lakers the prior week.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/lakers/releases/130712chriskaman|title=Lakers Sign Chris Kaman|access-date=July 26, 2013|date=July 12, 2013|website=NBA.com|archive-date=July 15, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130715073847/http://www.nba.com/lakers/releases/130712chriskaman|url-status=live}} Trevor Ariza switched agents to sign with Pelinka one year before his contract with the Washington Wizards was due to expire.{{cite web|url=http://www.csnwashington.com/basketball-washington-wizards/talk/ariza-switches-agents-entering-final-contract-year|title=Ariza switches agents entering final contract year|access-date=July 26, 2013|date=July 15, 2013|publisher=Comcast SportsNet|author=Standig, Ben|archive-date=July 19, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130719125750/http://www.csnwashington.com/basketball-washington-wizards/talk/ariza-switches-agents-entering-final-contract-year|url-status=live}} On November 25, Bryant signed a two-year contract extension with the Lakers at an estimated value of $48.5 million that made him the first NBA player to play 20 years with the same franchise.{{cite web|url=http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/11/25/lakers-sign-kobe-bryant-to-two-year-contract-extension/|title=Lakers sign Kobe Bryant to two-year, $48.5 million contract extension|access-date=November 27, 2013|date=November 25, 2013|publisher=NBC Sports|author=Helin, Kurt|archive-date=November 26, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131126190338/http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/11/25/lakers-sign-kobe-bryant-to-two-year-contract-extension/|url-status=live}} He remained the league's highest-paid player, despite accepting the discounted deal; he had been eligible to receive an extension starting at $32 million per year.{{cite news|last=Pincus |first=Eric |title=Lakers sign Kobe Bryant to a two-year contract extension |date=November 25, 2013 |newspaper=Los Angeles Times |url=http://www.latimes.com/sports/lakersnow/la-sp-ln-lakers-sign-kobe-bryant-2-year-extension-20131125,0,2809465.story#ixzz2lgvzE5No |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131126061128/http://www.latimes.com/sports/lakersnow/la-sp-ln-lakers-sign-kobe-bryant-2-year-extension-20131125,0,2809465.story |archive-date=November 26, 2013 |url-status=live }}

Pelinka signed Dante Exum, who was selected by the Utah Jazz with the fifth overall pick in the 2014 NBA draft{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/draft2014/story/_/id/10363177/dante-exum-declares-2014-nba-draft|title=Dante Exum declares for draft|access-date=April 25, 2014|date=January 28, 2014|publisher=ESPN|author=Ford, Chad|archive-date=July 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160703235556/http://espn.go.com/nba/draft2014/story/_/id/10363177/dante-exum-declares-2014-nba-draft|url-status=live}} on June 26, 2014. On July 11, 2014, Exum signed with the Jazz.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/jazz/news/jazz-signs-first-round-picks-dante-exum-and-rodney-hood|title=Jazz Signs First-Round Picks Danté Exum and Rodney Hood|access-date=July 13, 2014|date=July 11, 2014|website=NBA.com|archive-date=July 14, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714054340/http://www.nba.com/jazz/news/jazz-signs-first-round-picks-dante-exum-and-rodney-hood|url-status=live}} Pelinka also represented Shabazz Napier,{{cite news|url=http://www.courant.com/sports/uconn-mens-basketball/hc-uconn-napier-daniels-nba-draft-0627-20140626,0,6473434.story|title=UConn's Napier Drafted By Hornets, Traded To Heat; Daniels To Toronto At No. 37|access-date=June 27, 2014|date=June 26, 2014|newspaper=Hartford Courant|author=Amore, Don|archive-date=July 8, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140708053350/http://www.courant.com/sports/uconn-mens-basketball/hc-uconn-napier-daniels-nba-draft-0627-20140626,0,6473434.story|url-status=live}} chosen 24th overall in the 2014 draft by the Charlotte Hornets, who was later traded to the Miami Heat on draft night.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/heat/news/heat-acquires-shabazz-napier-2014-nba-draft|title=HEAT Acquires Shabazz Napier in the 2014 NBA Draft|access-date=July 13, 2014|date=June 27, 2014|website=NBA.com|archive-date=August 6, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170806230103/http://www.nba.com/heat/news/heat-acquires-shabazz-napier-2014-nba-draft/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/truehoop/miamiheat/story/_/id/11142763/2014-nba-draft-miami-heat-trade-guard-shabazz-napier|title=Heat trade up for Shabazz Napier|access-date=July 13, 2014|date=June 27, 2014|author=Windhorst, Brian|publisher=ESPN|archive-date=July 14, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714144532/http://espn.go.com/nba/truehoop/miamiheat/story/_/id/11142763/2014-nba-draft-miami-heat-trade-guard-shabazz-napier|url-status=live}}

In the 2014 free agency period, Pelinka represented unsigned players Kaman, Fisher, Ariza, and Johnson; team option Drummond and Williams; qualifying offer player Davis.{{cite web|title=Rob Pelinka |url=http://www.draftexpress.com/agents/Rob-Pelinka-99/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110311224018/http://www.draftexpress.com/agents/Rob-Pelinka-99/ |access-date=June 27, 2014 |archive-date=March 11, 2011 |publisher=Draftexpress.com |url-status=dead }} Kaman signed a two-year $9.8 million contract to play for the Portland Trail Blazers.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/11175609/chris-kaman-agrees-deal-portland-trail-blazers-according-reports|title=Chris Kaman to join Trail Blazers|access-date=July 13, 2014|date=July 4, 2014|publisher=ESPN|archive-date=July 11, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140711222829/http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/11175609/chris-kaman-agrees-deal-portland-trail-blazers-according-reports|url-status=live}} Fisher signed a 5-year $25 million contract to be head coach for the New York Knicks.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.si.com/nba/point-forward/2014/06/09/derek-fisher-coach-new-york-knicks|title=Reports: Derek Fisher accepts Knicks job, finalizing five-year, $25 million contract|access-date=July 13, 2014|date=June 14, 2014|magazine=Sports Illustrated|author=Mahoney, Rob|archive-date=July 14, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714132743/http://www.si.com/nba/point-forward/2014/06/09/derek-fisher-coach-new-york-knicks|url-status=live}} Ariza agreed to a 4-year $32 million contract to play for the Houston Rockets.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/11207879/houston-rockets-sign-trevor-ariza|title=Rockets to sign Trevor Ariza|access-date=July 13, 2014|date=July 12, 2014|publisher=ESPN|archive-date=July 13, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140713105338/http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/11207879/houston-rockets-sign-trevor-ariza|url-status=live}} Late in the year, Drummond left Pelinka for Jeff Schwartz.{{cite web|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nba/pistons/2015/04/11/detroit-pistons-andre-drummond/25635821/|title=Pistons' Drummond: I'm not focused on contract extension|access-date=May 1, 2015|date=April 11, 2015|work=Detroit Free Press|author=Ellis, Vince|archive-date=April 16, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150416055510/http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nba/pistons/2015/04/11/detroit-pistons-andre-drummond/25635821/|url-status=live}}

Pelinka was rumored to be in the running to represent Stanley Johnson,{{cite web|url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nba/pistons/2015/04/11/detroit-pistons-andre-drummond/25635821/|title=Pistons' Drummond: I'm not focused on contract extension|access-date=May 1, 2015|date=February 26, 2015|work=Sporting News|author=Deveney, Sean|archive-date=April 16, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150416055510/http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nba/pistons/2015/04/11/detroit-pistons-andre-drummond/25635821/|url-status=live}} but ultimately lost to Bill Duffy.{{cite web|url=http://www.mlive.com/pistons/index.ssf/2015/07/stanley_johnson_got_challenged.html|title=Stanley Johnson got challenged early by Pacers; they messed with wrong guy|access-date=April 1, 2016|date=July 8, 2015|work=MLive.com|author=Mayo, David|archive-date=April 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160414022051/http://www.mlive.com/pistons/index.ssf/2015/07/stanley_johnson_got_challenged.html|url-status=live}} In May 2015, Pelinka signed Shabazz Muhammad.{{cite web|url=http://www.canishoopus.com/2015/5/29/8681639/minnesota-lynx-start-preseason-stephen-curry-and-lebron-james-prepare-to-face|title=Lynx Start Preseason, Stephen Curry and LeBron James Prepare to Face off in NBA Finals|access-date=April 1, 2016|date=May 29, 2015|work=SB Nation|author=Young, Lindsey M.|archive-date=April 17, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160417140506/http://www.canishoopus.com/2015/5/29/8681639/minnesota-lynx-start-preseason-stephen-curry-and-lebron-james-prepare-to-face|url-status=live}} He represented Tyus Jones at the June 25, 2015 NBA draft, where he was selected 24th by the Cleveland Cavaliers, who then traded him to his hometown Minnesota Timberwolves.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/draft2015/story/_/id/13153073/tyus-jones-draft-dream-realized-trade-minnesota-timberwolves|title=Tyus Jones' draft dream is realized|access-date=April 1, 2016|date=June 26, 2015|publisher=ESPN|author=Medcalf, Myron|archive-date=April 15, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160415162701/http://espn.go.com/nba/draft2015/story/_/id/13153073/tyus-jones-draft-dream-realized-trade-minnesota-timberwolves|url-status=live}} Pelinka negotiated Harden a $200 million contract with Adidas that Nike opted not to match in August.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/13430132/james-harden-houston-rockets-join-adidas-nike-opts-not-match-13-year-200-million-offer|title=James Harden will join Adidas as Nike opts not to match $200M offer|access-date=April 1, 2016|date=August 13, 2015|publisher=ESPN|author=Rovell, Darren|archive-date=April 11, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411105532/http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/13430132/james-harden-houston-rockets-join-adidas-nike-opts-not-match-13-year-200-million-offer|url-status=live}}

In January 2016, Avery Bradley left Mitchell Butler to sign with Pelinka after being disappointed with the results of a contract extension.{{cite web|url=http://www.cbssports.com/nba/eye-on-basketball/25461826/report-celtics-avery-bradley-unhappy-with-contract-situation|title=Report: Celtics' Avery Bradley 'unhappy' with contract situation|access-date=April 1, 2016|date=January 26, 2016|work=CBS Sports|author=Moore, Matt|archive-date=April 13, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160413130914/http://www.cbssports.com/nba/eye-on-basketball/25461826/report-celtics-avery-bradley-unhappy-with-contract-situation|url-status=live}} During the lead-up to the 2016 NBA draft, Buddy Hield, the consensus college player of the year in 2015–16, signed with Pelinka. Marquese Chriss also signed with Pelinka.{{cite web|url=http://www.uwdawgpound.com/2016/6/22/11998394/chriss-murray-set-for-nba-draft-thursday|title=Chriss, Murray set for NBA Draft Thursday|access-date=June 29, 2016|date=June 22, 2016|publisher=SB Nation|archive-date=June 25, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160625012547/http://www.uwdawgpound.com/2016/6/22/11998394/chriss-murray-set-for-nba-draft-thursday|url-status=live}} Hield was drafted 6th and Chriss was selected 8th.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/page/draft16index/complete-coverage-2016-nba-draft|title=NBA draft 2016: Complete coverage|access-date=June 29, 2016|date=June 23, 2016|publisher=ESPN|archive-date=June 27, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160627202411/http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/page/draft16index/complete-coverage-2016-nba-draft|url-status=live}}

On February 21, 2017, media sources reported that the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association (NBA) were set to hire Pelinka to serve as general manager as part of a management shakeup that included the hiring of Magic Johnson as executive vice president of basketball operations in place of Jim Buss and dismissing former GM Mitch Kupchak.{{cite web|url=http://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/lakers-hire-former-kobe-bryant-agent-rob-pelinka-for-gm-role-next-to-magic-johnson/|title=Lakers hire former Kobe Bryant agent Rob Pelinka for GM role next to Magic Johnson|access-date=February 22, 2017|date=February 21, 2017|work=CBS Sports|author=Moore, Matt|archive-date=February 22, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170222081455/http://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/lakers-hire-former-kobe-bryant-agent-rob-pelinka-for-gm-role-next-to-magic-johnson/|url-status=live}} On March 7, Pelinka signed a five-year deal to be the general manager of the Lakers.{{cite web|title=Lakers Name Rob Pelinka General Manager|url=http://www.nba.com/lakers/releases/lakers-name-rob-pelinka-general-manager|website=NBA.com|access-date=March 13, 2017|date=March 7, 2017|archive-date=May 31, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210531005322/https://www.nba.com/lakers/releases/lakers-name-rob-pelinka-general-manager|url-status=live}} After he quit the Lakers, Johnson in an interview on ESPN's First Take on May 20, 2019, stated that Pelinka wanted his position and "backstabbed" him.{{cite web|title=Magic Johnson says Lakers GM Rob Pelinka a Backstabbing POS|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffERoFUVE8M| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211117/ffERoFUVE8M| archive-date=2021-11-17 | url-status=live|website=YouTube|access-date=March 22, 2017|date=March 22, 2017}}{{cbignore}} Pelinka has been criticized for his penchant for "storytelling", in other words embellishing or even totally misrepresenting the truth at times throughout his tenure with the Lakers. According to sources, in March 2018, as Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson addressed the players on the roster as part of a "Genius Talks" series, Pelinka told a story about his former client Kobe Bryant.{{cite web|last1=Holmes|first1=Baxter|date=May 28, 2019|title=Lakers 2.0: The failed reboot of the NBA's crown jewel|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/26821790/lakers-20-failed-reboot-nba-crown-jewel|url-status=live|access-date=May 10, 2021|work=ESPN|archive-date=May 13, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210513042525/https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/26821790/lakers-20-failed-reboot-nba-crown-jewel}} In the story, Pelinka stated that after Bryant had seen the Heath Ledger film The Dark Knight, he requested Pelinka set him up with a dinner appointment with Ledger to see how Ledger pushed himself to focus and lock into the role of the Joker. According to Pelinka, Bryant "had dinner with Heath, and he talked about how he locks in for a role... and Kobe used some of that in his game against the Knicks." However, the Dark Knight film was released 6 months after Ledger's death, and a source close to the situation denied that such a dinner had ever taken place. In the words of a 2019 Lakers coaching staff member, "We think, more often than not, he's not being truthful. That goes throughout the organization."

On January 10, 2020, Pelinka was promoted to vice president of basketball operations while also maintaining his role as GM.{{cite web|title=Report:Lakers extend contract of promoted executive Rob Pelinka|url=https://www.nba.com/amp/league/article/2020/01/10/report-rob-pelinka-contract-extension|website=nba.com|access-date=October 18, 2020|date=January 10, 2020}}

In 2020, Pelinka finished in 7th place for the Executive of the Year Award.{{Cite web|url=https://www.nba.com/news/lawrence-frank-executive-year-official-release|title=Lawrence Frank wins 2019-20 NBA Basketball Executive of the Year Award|website=www.nba.com|access-date=April 16, 2021|archive-date=March 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210306150257/https://www.nba.com/news/lawrence-frank-executive-year-official-release|url-status=live}}

On the night of February 1–2, 2025, Pelinka together with longtime friend Nico Harrison concluded the Luka Dončić–Anthony Davis trade, considered by many to be one of the greatest coups in NBA history.{{ cite web|url=https://www.si.com/nba/mavericks/news/la-lakers-gm-rob-pelinka-thanks-dallas-mavericks-nico-harrison-trading-luka-doncic-los-angeles-|title=Lakers GM Rob Pelinka thanks Mavs' Nico Harrison for trading Luka Doncic to Los Angeles| work=si.com | first1=Dustin | last1=Lewis |date=February 4, 2025 }}

The following are Pelinka's career statistics at the University of Michigan:{{cite web|url=http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/basketstart.php |title=Men's Basketball Statistic Archive Query Page |access-date=July 20, 2008 |publisher=Regents of the University of Michigan |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100418044313/http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/basketstart.php |archive-date=April 18, 2010 }}

Pelinka entered the Bachelor of Business Administration program at the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business where he accumulated a 3.9/4.0 grade point average.{{cite news|date=April 1, 1993|title=Plus Sports|work=Chicago Sun-Times|url-access=subscription|publisher=Newsbank|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4212B615059BC&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|access-date=July 20, 2008}} During his time at Michigan, he developed a close relationship with University of Michigan tax law professor Doug Kahn and his wife. In January 1993, Pelinka announced he was accepted to the University of Michigan Law School and the Northwestern University School of Law and stated that he hoped to become a professional sports agent after his athletic and academic careers were complete.{{cite news|date=January 15, 1993|title=Vaughn's Season - Might Not Be Over|work=Chicago Sun-Times|publisher=Newsbank|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42118AEF0BD20&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|access-date=July 20, 2008|url-access=subscription}} After Michigan won the 1993 NCAA West Regional Final, Pelinka, who was one of six finalists,{{cite news|author=Stoda, Greg|date=March 29, 1993|title=Not-So-Fab Five: Temple Coach Chaney Isn't U-M's Biggest Fan|work=Detroit Free Press|publisher=Newsbank|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB5309AC021C2C6&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|access-date=June 6, 2009|url-access=subscription}} flew to St. Louis, Missouri for a final interview for the Walter Byers Scholarship.{{cite news|author=Lien, Dick|date=April 5, 1993|title=Casino Could Cost City Future Tournaments|work=Peoria Journal Star|publisher=Newsbank|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:PJSB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB6EBBB80F925B0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|access-date=July 20, 2008|url-access=subscription}} Later that week, Pelinka was honored with the 1993 Walter Byers Scholar Award as the NCAA's top male scholar athlete. Pelinka earned a variety of other scholar athlete awards.{{cite news|author1=Mayer, Larry|author2=John Owens|name-list-style=amp|date=June 4, 1993|title=Metro Sports. Bits & Pieces.|work=Chicago Tribune|publisher=Newsbank|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFECA7F664FBD0D&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|access-date=July 20, 2008|url-access=subscription}}{{cite news|author=Conklin, Mike|date=December 2, 1993|title=Merrillville Minor League? Not So Fast|work=Chicago Tribune|publisher=Newsbank|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFECF7FF373BC33&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|access-date=July 20, 2008|url-access=subscription}} In the media, Pelinka is known for bearing striking resemblance to actor (and Lakers fan) Rob Lowe.{{cite web|url=https://www.tmz.com/2017/04/18/rob-lowe-rob-pelinka-lakers/|title=Rob Lowe I'm Not Rob Pelinka! But If I Were ...|work=TMZ|date=April 18, 2017|quote=The resemblance is uncanny and people in L.A. have been talking about it ever since Pelinka got the job ... so when we saw Lowe in L.A. on Monday, we asked him if they were separated at birth.}}{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/2017/12/18/renaissance-man-gm-rob-pelinka-kobe-agent-trying-revitalize-lakers/959648001/|title=

Renaissance man: GM Rob Pelinka, Kobe's former agent, is trying to revitalize the Lakers|work=USA Today|last=Amick|first=Sam|quote=The team’s 47-year-old general manager, the Rob Lowe look-a-like [...].}}

Instead of playing basketball in Europe, Pelinka chose to attend Michigan Law School after graduation and became a top law student. During his first year of law school, several of his former teammates appeared in Blue Chips: Billy Douglass (Lake Forest), Eric Anderson (Chicago All-star), and Demitrius Calip (Michigan).{{cite web|title=Blue Chips (1994)|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0109305/fullcredits#cast|access-date=July 20, 2008|work=IMDb.com|archive-date=April 25, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080425130713/http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0109305/fullcredits#cast|url-status=live}} While in law school, he took several classes from Kahn. During his second year in law school, he became the home game color analyst for Wolverines basketball play-by-play announcer Chuck Swirsky on a 16-station broadcast network that originated from WJR-AM,{{cite news|author=O'Donnell, Jim|date=February 19, 1995|title=Lake Talk.|work=Chicago Tribune|publisher=Newsbank|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42690560D954A&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|access-date=July 20, 2008|url-access=subscription}} and he debuted on December 22, 1994, during a game against Jackson State University.{{cite news|author=Kornacki, Steve|date=December 23, 1994|title=U-M Escape Taylor Made|work=Detroit Free Press|publisher=Newsbank|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:AWNB:DFPB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB5321814E8E5D5&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|access-date=June 6, 2009|url-access=subscription}} While in law school, he interned for Winston & Strawn LLP. Pelinka earned his Juris Doctor cum laude in 1996.

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{{Reflist|30em}}

• [https://web.archive.org/web/20100418044313/http://stats.ath.umich.edu/basketball/basketstart.php University of Michigan Basketball Statistical Archive]
• [http://www.thelandmarksportsagency.com/ The Landmark Sports Agency]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20121104183337/http://articles.latimes.com/keyword/rob-pelinka Pelinka archive] at Los Angeles Times

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Category:Lake Forest High School (Illinois) alumni

Category:Los Angeles Lakers executives

Category:Michigan Wolverines men's basketball players

Category:People associated with Winston & Strawn

Category:People from Lake Bluff, Illinois

Category:Point guards

Category:Ross School of Business alumni

Category:Shooting guards

Category:University of Michigan Law School alumni

Category:20th-century American sportsmen