To the surprise of many, Yuki Kawamura had a good preseason run with the Memphis Grizzlies these past few weeks. As a result, the franchise signed the Japanese guard to a two-way contract, making him the smallest player in the NBA for the upcoming season.
A few months ago, the Japanese guard gained significant attention during the Summer Olympics, where he showcased his skills and averaged 20 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game. His shooting stats included a commendable 40% from beyond the arc, highlighting his potential as a sharpshooter.
Kawamura’s standout feature is his signature move, which has drawn comparisons to Steph Curry’s playing style. However, he faces tough competition for minutes on the court, particularly from established guards like Ja Morant and Marcus Smart. At 5’8″, his height presents an additional challenge in a league that often favors taller players.
Despite these obstacles, Kawamura has shown promise in the preseason, delivering impressive no-look passes and demonstrating his capability as a playmaker. The Grizzlies have yet to finalize their starting lineup, which leaves open the possibility for unexpected changes that could benefit him.
His journey is a compelling one, as he aims to become part of the growing representation of Japanese players in the NBA. With his unique skill set and international experience, Kawamura’s future in professional basketball is definitely one to watch.
Memphis Grizzlies Sign Japanese NBA Player Yuki Kawamura to Two-Way Contract
Kawamura’ steady performance for the Grizzlies has turned a lot of eyes towards his direction. According to a tweet posted by Legion Hoops on its official X account, Memphis has signed the Japanese guard to a two-way contract.
5’8 guard Yuki Kawamura signed a two-way contract with the Grizzlies today, per @ShamsCharania Shortest active player in the NBA
Kawamura has officially joined the Grizzlies on a two-way contract, marking a significant step in his NBA career. The Japanese guard impressed during the Summer Olympics, showcasing his scoring and playmaking abilities.
Standing at 5’8″, Kawamura faces challenges due to his height, especially with established guards like Ja Morant ahead of him. However, his unique skill set and competitive spirit could make him a valuable asset for the Grizzlies. As he begins this new chapter, Kawamura’s journey reflects the growing influence of international talent in the NBA.
For More Great Basketball Content
Follow me on Twitter at @BeatKit22 and follow us @HardwoodHeroics for more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in college and professional sports, click here!
