With the NBA Summer League well underway, the Chicago Bulls have seen some extraordinary play from a number of their players.
Last year's rookie, Matas Buzelis, is one of the few players from the Bulls' main roster taking the court in Las Vegas. Other names like Emanuel Miller, Josh Primo, and Jahmir Young may be recognizable to fans, too.
One name that is capturing the attention and gaining traction for the second year in a row is the only player below six feet tall. The Japanese guard and former Memphis Grizzly is doing his part to make Chicago's final roster.
Why Yuki Kawamura Could Be a Chicago Bull Next Season
After playing just 22 games for the Memphis Grizzlies last season, Kawamura has found his way to the Windy City. He was invited to the Bulls' roster for the 2025 Summer League.
The 24-year-old point guard may not be as big as his teammates, but his game is just as big on his best days. In the Bulls' first Summer League win, Kawamura posted a double-double off the bench.
"He’s (Yuki) picking up full court, doing everything on the court, he’s the definition of heart over height. He plays so hard. To be on the floor with him means a lot, he’s an amazing player, amazing human."Matas Buzelis, Bulls teammate
His 15-point, 10-assist performance made a number of highlight reels and media outlets. Kawamura and his teammate Emanuel Miller were a team high +14 for Chicago.
The Tokai University graduate also displayed some strong defense. In the 114-105 win over the Indiana Pacers, Kawamura recorded three steals for the second game in a row.
Three of his seven total steals came in the game against the Sacramento Kings. He tallied four points and five assists to complement his defensive showing.
Even if Chicago is able to re-sign starting point guard Josh Giddey, it couldn't hurt to add another playmaker on the depth chart behind him and Tre Jones. An injury not only ended Jones's season early, but it also did the same to the now-traded point guard Lonzo Ball.
Kawamura only averaged four minutes per game last season with Memphis. However, the Grizzlies have Ja Morant as their starting point guard on a more competitive team than the Bulls. Ty Jerome, Scotty Pippen Jr., and Cam Spencer are listed on the depth chart behind Morant.
The 2024 B.League Assist Leader shined in the Grizzlies' season finale with 12 points, five rebounds, and five assists. Kawamura also recorded 10 points, three assists, and three boards in the December 29 game on the road against the NBA champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Bulls guard has a better chance to crack Chicago's preseason roster, especially with another double-double off the bench. Kawamura and his teammates will compete on Wednesday afternoon against the Milwaukee Bucks.