Yuki Kawamura Has Message for Ja Morant After Leaving Grizzlies
After getting swept in the first round of last season's playoffs by the eventual champion Oklahoma City Thunder, the Memphis Grizzlies have already made some big changes this offseason. Most notably, they traded Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Cole Anthony (who has since been bought out).
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In addition to Bane, the Grizzlies lost some other players this offseason, including guard Yuki Kawamura. After playing in 22 games for Memphis last season, the Japanese native signed a summer league contract with the Chicago Bulls in the offseason.
Recently, Kawamura spoke about his time in Memphis and sent a message to former teammate, Ja Morant.
Memphis Grizzlies guard Yuki Kawamura (17) and Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (2) © Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Though his stay in Memphis was not long, it seems to have left an impact on Kawamura. Recently, the 24-year-old admitted that he misses Memphis and wanted to remain with the team. Furthermore, he also said he missed Morant, calling him his "big brother."
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'I miss Memphis. Memphis people are so nice. I wanted to play in Memphis this year, too, but it is what it is,' Kawamura said. 'I already miss [Ja Morant]. He's such a great guy. He's my big brother.'
While he did not play much for Memphis as an undrafted player on a two-way deal, Kawamura still made an impact and became a fan favorite.
Now with the Bulls, the 5-foot-8 guard will look to make the same impact in Chicago and secure a bigger NBA role. He has shown flashes so far in his career, but he has not had much of an opportunity in the big leagues. Hopefully for him, that will change in Chicago.
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Related: Grizzlies Announce Trade With Warriors
Related: Ja Morant Reacts to Grizzlies' Trade Announcement on Sunday
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 15, 2025, where it first appeared.
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