Memphis Grizzlies have found a new darling in Japanese point guard Yuki Kawamura who had fans hooked with his crisp passes and hustle during the pre-season. One of his bigger fans is Ja Morant who took him under his care as they navigate the new season.
While Kawamura is yet to see good minutes on the court, he remains noticeable on the bench and that is thanks to Morant who helps him get acclimated with the team.
Even Brandon Clarke is amused by their growing friendship.
“It’s funny to watch, they seem like two little buddies,” he said in an interview with Memphis Commercial Appeal,. “I like to watch them. Feels like it’s two sides colliding.”
Kawamura is making his presence felt from the bench by celebrating plays. One clip that showed the two’s bond is when the 5’8 guard was spotted copying Morant’s “too small” celebration.
Yuki Kawamura says Ja Morant taught him the ‘too small’ celebration yesterday:
“So small, right? It’s disrespect, right? I don’t like that. But if my teammates dunk on them, from the bench, I’ll do it.”
(via @DrewHill_DM) pic.twitter.com/lJJ9D93mse
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) November 3, 2024
“So small, right? It’s disrespect, right? I don’t like that. But if my teammates dunk on them, from the bench, I’ll do it.”
Ja Morant on relationship with Yuki Kawamura
Kawamura is yet to score his first ever NBA points but it will come along, especially if he has Morant as a mentor.
The two-time All-Star said he is making conscious effort to help the Japanese fit into the squad and he believes he has the wares to do so.
“He just brings a light and joy to the team,” Morant said.
“Just making sure he’s as comfortable as possible. Just making sure that he’s being him, and he ain’t shying away from it at all.”
Kawamura is happy with this bond with the NBA star, too.
“It was a special moment,” he said as quoted by reporter Drew Hill. “Ja is my great friend. He is my guy.”
The two are definitely forming friendship. They even dance together during huddles and Kawamura has been featured in Morant’s IG stories.
For the latest Basketball Content
Follow us @HardwoodHeroics for the latest and trending news about NBA, college basketball, and more. Stay updated by reading more of our NBA articles by clicking here and college basketball by clicking here!
