Yuki Kawamura
Often considered a “fan favorite” of his past teams, the Memphis Grizzlies and Chicago Bulls, guard Yuki Kawamura is the third Pacer to watch in Summer League. Kawamura, yet another undersized guard on Indiana, is only 5’7″ and 159 pounds. Beloved by the Bulls’ fanbase for his high energy and physicality, as well as his shooting and playmaking, Kawamura now has the ability to showcase those talents on the Pacers.
Kawamura is one of the most experienced players on the Pacers’ Summer League roster and hopes to get another chance in the NBA. He played for the Grizzlies in 2024-25 and for the Bulls this past season, earning his way onto Chicago’s roster after impressing in the G League. So far in his NBA career, he’s averaged 2.5 points, 1.8 rebounds and 2.6 assists while only seeing an average of 7.6 minutes per game.
Kawamura has been considered a fun player to watch. He makes creative, highlight-worthy passes on offense while being fast and physical on defense, which fits right into the Pacers’ style. Kawamura is never afraid to defend a bigger player and has the courage and determination to stop whoever he guards. However, his size has been a major obstacle that limits his abilities, ultimately leading to his struggles to remain on an NBA roster. Kawamura will have to rely on his impressive playmaking, ball handling, shot creation and court vision to find a way onto the Pacers.
Yuki Kawamura.
NBA Assist Week.Enjoy. pic.twitter.com/67oUWsYzfe
— NBA (@NBA) August 19, 2025
Kawamura‘s passion and flair will lead to more exciting plays that will win over the hearts of many Pacers fans, who will cheer for him to succeed just as Grizzlies and Bulls fans did. In reality, his path to a guaranteed spot is not in his favor. His size limits him significantly, and he will also be challenging other guards on the Pacers Summer League team. Kawamura could find himself on the Pacers’ G League squad and eventually work his way to a two-way contract if a spot opens up.
The Last Word
The Pacers Summer League team has some intriguing prospects. Some are getting the attention of the media, and others have quietly made the roster and hope to impress when they get their moment. Lipsey, Mast and Kawamura all quietly possess the skills needed to make a splash on the Summer League team and prove themselves worthy of roster spots. Do not be surprised if these three impress viewers and the Pacers organization alike.
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