Guard Yuki Kawamura is poised to sign a two-way NBA contract with the Memphis Grizzlies following an impressive preseason, according to sources cited by ESPN’s Shams Charania. Kawamura’s performance in the preseason included averaging 3.4 points and 4.2 assists over 15.1 minutes per game in five contests, despite shooting 4 for 16 from beyond the arc.
The 23-year-old Kawamura hails from Japan and has been a key player for Japan’s national team, participating in the recent Paris Olympics. Prior to this, he played for four seasons with the Yokohama B-Corsairs in Japan’s B.League, where he earned the MVP title in 2023, showcasing his skills on an international level.
Standing at 5-foot-8, Kawamura will make history as the shortest player in the NBA. His height places him among a select group of players, being only the ninth to measure 5-foot-8 or shorter since the merger of the ABA and NBA in 1976, according to research by ESPN.
Kawamura’s signing marks a significant milestone not just for him but also for the Grizzlies as they continue to enhance their roster. His unique playing style and experience from international competition could provide valuable depth to the team’s lineup as they prepare for the upcoming season.
