Yuki Kawamura might be one of the most interesting players from the 2024 draft, even though he went undrafted. On the heels of his strong play at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Yuki made it to the NBA. Eventually, he signed a two-way contract with the Memphis Grizzlies, which allows him to be on the team, but if needed, he might also get assigned to the G League. The Grizzlies probably intended to send Yuki to the G League when it is time, but due to injuries to key players, he might get more playing time in the NBA.
It is Time for Yuki Kawamura to Show Off His Skills
As of November 13th, the Memphis Grizzlies have more than half of their guard rotation in street clothes. Initially, Yuki was not getting much playing time. However, in the limited time he got, he showed off some nifty passes. During preseason, his no-look passes made fans go crazy. Yuki is only the fourth Japanese player to make it to the NBA. Fans all over the NBA love him, they cherish his every touch, shot, and made field goal.
The Grizzlies projected Yuki as the fifth or sixth guard, depending on how you look at it. He had to play behind Desmond Bane, Ja Morant, Marcus Smart, Scotty Pippen Jr., Luke Kennard, and John Konchar. Due to the injuries to Morant, Bane, Smart, and Kennard, he is now one of the first guards off the bench. In Memphis’ last game versus the Trailblazers, Yuki got eight minutes of action. He made his second shot of the season, and dished four assists. At the end of the game, Trailblazers fans were chanting his name.
Yuki made his first shot in the NBA against the Washington Wizards. But what most fans might remember from that game is his behind-the-back, no-look pass. During the preseason, Yuki Kawamura’s skills for passing dazzled fans. Now, he is showing he can do it during the regular season as well.
Will Yuki Get More Playing Time?
For the next week or two, we can expect Yuki to get more minutes of action on the floor. It is a perfect opportunity for the shortest active player (Yuki is officially listed at 5-foot-8, the only player under 6 feet in the league) to show off his skills. Whether that will be through assists or shooting threes, it doesn’t matter, he is quickly becoming a fan favorite.
Will Yuki Go To the G League?
The Memphis Grizzlies have a G League Affiliate, the Memphis Hustle. Their season began on November 11th, and their next game is on November 20th. As of now, the Grizzlies need Yuki for at least some garbage time minutes. Once Morant, Bane, and Marcus Smart return from injuries, we might see Yuki assigned to the Memphis Hustle. The G League team has two more games left in November.
Here is a fun fact, he would not be the first Japanese player to appear in a Memphis Grizzlies uniform. His national team colleague, Yuta Watanabe, started his professional journey with a two-way deal with the Memphis Grizzlies and spent six years in the league. For now, it is all about working and growing. When he signed his two-way contract, Yuki posted on Instagram, saying,
“I’m just getting started and there are still many challenges ahead, but I will continue working hard every day to stand on the NBA court and contribute to the team’s victories. I truly appreciate your support.”
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