Yuki Kawamura embraces lifetime dream of being in the NBA
Yuki Kawamura dreams of every hooper in the Memphis Grizzlies , but he is undoubtedly aware that the clock might hit the wall and the moment could suddenly fade between his eyes.
For that, playing in the NBA right now is a do-or-die opportunity for the Japanese star to earn his stripes and prove to everyone that he belongs in the big league.
"Every day is a tryout. I can get cut anytime," Kawamura said via the Olympics. "Can't let up at all; I must prove to my teammates and the coaching staff that I can play.
"I must look at myself hard in the mirror daily and play with conviction."
A dream come true
Yuki worked his way up here to make it to the Association finally, but the grind still doesn't stop for the 23-year-old.
Every sports fan remains fresh with memories and key highlights of how Kawamura occupied the men's basketball spotlight of the 2024 Paris Olympics. Yuki captivated the world with his determination and wonder, his 5-foot-8 frame. He led his mighty Japanese troops into a compelling run that nearly pulled off one of the most stunning upsets against host country France.
Amid the dazzling display he presented in the Summer Games, Yuki earned a golden opportunity from the Memphis Grizzlies, inking an Exhibit 10 contract. This is a significant achievement for the Japanese basketball program after an eventual special Olympic rally, allowing Kawamura to follow his countryman and Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura to the Association.
Living on his dreams
As unique as it might be to earn a shot, this still doesn't guarantee Yuki a permanent spot in the NBA. Under the terms of an E10 deal, he still has to impress the team and convince the Grizzlies to convert him to a two-way contract.
But things are going smoothly and intriguing for the Japanese sensation. As Memphis continues to take precautionary measures to handle the injury recovery of Ja Morant and Marcus Smart ahead of the 2024-25 season, Kawamura is embracing the trust of head coach Taylor Jenkins to be the temporary showrunner in their ongoing preseason outing. He averages 4.3 points and 4.8 assists in four games in 16.9 minutes. As such, he has been the current delight for every NBA fan with his passing clinic, shifty speed, and leadership in the Grizzlies' pace.
"This is my dream stage," Kawamura said. "Whether I'm on for 40 minutes or one, I'll give it my 100 percent."
Related: Los Angeles Lakers predicted to scoop up Marcus Smart in blockbuster tradeThis story was originally published October 16, 2024, 6:30 PM.
