Rumors began to circulate that Yuki Kawamura, a guard with the Memphis Grizzlies, would be leaving the franchise after just one season.
The Grizzlies’ decision not to extend Kawamura a qualifying offer solidified the anticipated departure, as he became an unrestricted free agency.
On July 3, Grizzlies standout Ja Morant posted about Kawamura being selected up by the Chicago Bulls.
“Don’t die, yukiX12,” Morant wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. Kawamura has joined the Chicago Bulls for their summer league play.
Even though he’s moving on to new things professionally, the 5-foot-7 point guard appreciated his time playing for the Grizzlies and Morant. “Indeed, Memphis is something I miss,” Kawamura added.
The folks of Memphis are incredibly helpful and friendly. Memphis was also on my list of places to play this year, but work got in the way.
At this moment, I am content. Impressive work by the Bulls organization. Excellent chance for me.
If Morant couldn’t attend the Grizzlies’ game in person on July 12, he still made sure to see Kawamura’s game on July 13.
He’s been just as active as his present teammates in posting Kawamura’s summer league highlights online.
When Kawamura joined the Grizzlies, the relationship between him and Morant was noticeable. The two quickly bonded, often seen dancing together and learning handshakes. Morant was also one of the Grizzlies players who helped Kawamura learn American slang phrases.
“I already miss him,” Kawamura said. “He’s such a great guy. He’s my big brother.”
If the two aren’t able to catch up in Las Vegas, they could cross paths soon again. Morant is scheduled to begin an Nike International tour on July 18. He’ll eventually make his way to Tokyo, Japan.
Kawamura, a Japanese native, is hopeful he can be in Japan when Morant arrives on July 31.
I’m not sure right now,” Kawamura said.
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