He graduated from, Northern High School in Detroit, Michigan, in 1961, playing under Coach Eddie Powers.

[1] In three seasons playing center for Michigan, the 6' 7" Buntin had 1,037 rebounds, ranking second in school history.

Buntin averaged 23.2 points and 12.5 rebounds, teaming with Cazzie Russell (24.8, 9.0) to lead the Wolveines to the NCAA Tournament for only the second time in program history.

[8][9] In his senior year, the Wolverines advanced to the 1965 NCAA title game, where they lost, 91–80, to John Wooden's UCLA team with Gail Goodrich.

[11] Before Buntin embarked on his NBA career, he played for Team USA in the 1965 Fifth World Games in Budapest, Hungary.

[13] He was ordered by the Pistons to lose weight and was involved in a conflict with player-coach Dave DeBusschere.

[14] In 1966–1967, Buntin played with the Battle Creek Braves and Twin Cities Sailors of the North American Basketball League under Battle Creek Coach Med Park and Twin Cities Coach Johnny Egan.

[22][20][21] Former teammate George Pomey said, "(Buntin) was a very easy going, jovial guy who could keep his calm during the toughest games.