NBA Preseason Standout Yuki Kawamura Signs Two-Way Contract With Memphis
NBA Preseason Standout Yuki Kawamura Signs Two-Way Contract With Memphis
By Keith Mado October 23, 2024 22:23
Kawamura, a 5-foot-8, 159-pound guard, dazzled fans with his impressive play during the NBA preseason. Despite his small stature, Kawamura proved effective on the floor, enough to sign a two-way contract with the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Japanese star rose through the ranks and became the fourth Japanese player to play in the NBA and the first to come from the B-League, Japan’s domestic basketball league.
"I've only reached the starting line. There are many challenges still to overcome," Kawamura wrote on his Instagram.
He originally signed an Exhibit 10 training camp contract with the Grizzlies, but Kawamura’s incredible motor and capabilities as a floor general were enough to cement himself as a bonafide NBA player.
Yuki’s Akatsuki Japan teammate, former NBA player Yuta Watanabe, also started his professional journey on a two-way contract with the Memphis Grizzlies. Yuta played six seasons in the league before joining the Chiba Jets Funabashi of the B.League. With the same blueprint, Kawamura draws inspiration from his compatriot and aims to carve his own journey in the NBA.
"I will work hard every day to become a player who can step onto the NBA court and help my team win," Kawamura exclaimed.
Yuki was already a huge name in the Japan B-League, named the 2022-23 Rookie of the Year and league MVP. However, his performance during the Paris Olympics skyrocketed his stock, specifically when he dropped the game-high 29 points against hosts France in an overtime thriller.
"Yuki gives hope to every kid that has a dream to go play at the highest level. Height is not an obstacle; what matters most is heart, passion, and love for the game," said Tony Ronzone of Wasserman Sports, the agency that represents Kawamura.LATEST
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