0-for-8 Shooting! Yuki Kawamura’s Struggles Continue—Are the Grizzlies at Their Limit?

The NBA G League has proven to be a challenging battleground, often underestimated but filled with talented players competing at an incredibly high level. For many newcomers, it’s a tough proving ground. Two examples this season are Bronny James, averaging 5 points per game, and Choi Yong-Hee, averaging 4.5 points per game. Both young prospects show promise but remain raw and underdeveloped.

However, not all low-draft picks or undrafted players have such slow starts. One standout example is Yuki Kawamura, whose exceptional court vision and playmaking abilities have made him a sensation in the G League.

Kawamura’s Masterclass in Playmaking

From the moment Kawamura stepped onto the G League court, his ability to orchestrate an offense was undeniable. His debut featured a 10-assist performance, followed by a jaw-dropping 16 assists in his second game. In his third game, he tallied 6 assists in under nine minutes during the first quarter alone, ultimately finishing with 9 assists in 35 minutes. His passing skills consistently produce highlight-worthy plays that could easily land on any “Top 5 Plays” list.

Kawamura’s floor generalship is nothing short of elite. With enough touches and time on the court, it feels as though recording a double-double in points and assists is as routine for him as drinking water.

The Issue: Lack of Scoring

While Kawamura’s playmaking has dazzled, his offensive output has been underwhelming. His poor scoring efficiency has raised questions about whether he can translate his skills to the NBA level. Shooting woes were on full display in his most recent G League outing, where he shot 0-for-8 from the field, failing to score a single point despite logging heavy minutes.

Why Memphis Has Given Kawamura a Chance

The Memphis Grizzlies have shown extraordinary patience with Kawamura, providing him ample opportunities to prove himself. This commitment stems from the flashes of brilliance he showed during the NBA preseason. In limited action, Kawamura averaged 4.2 assists in just 15.1 minutes per game, leading the team with 21 total assists over the preseason. His ability to command the offense earned him a two-way contract with Memphis.

Kawamura also has a powerful ally in Ja Morant, the Grizzlies’ franchise player. According to reports from The Athletic, Morant went out of his way to ensure Kawamura received adequate media exposure after the team’s first preseason game, a testament to the respect Kawamura commands within the locker room.

An Underdog Story Resonating with Fans

Kawamura’s journey to the NBA is the epitome of an underdog story. Standing at 5’8” (1.72m), a height far below the league average, his very presence in the NBA is nothing short of miraculous. Fans across the league have embraced his story, showering him with cheers every time he takes the court. His achievements inspire awe and respect, proving that even with “a mortal body,” one can “stand among gods.”

International Experience: Kawamura’s Secret Weapon

Kawamura’s composure stems from years of invaluable experience on the international stage. As the undisputed leader of the Japanese national team, he has excelled in high-pressure environments. During last year’s FIBA World Cup, he averaged 13.6 points and 7.6 assists per game. This year, at the Olympic Qualifiers, he upped his game to 20.3 points and 7.7 assists per contest.

Such performances demonstrate that Kawamura is no stranger to tough competition. Unlike rookies like Bronny James, who have yet to experience high-level international play, or Choi Yong-Hee, who played a minimal role for his national team, Kawamura has proven he can shine on the global stage.

Hitting a Wall

Despite his impressive résumé, Kawamura is now facing significant challenges. Shooting struggles like his 0-for-8 performance highlight a glaring weakness in his game. Scoring remains a critical area for improvement, and his inability to contribute offensively limits his overall impact.

The Grizzlies have been more than generous in granting him opportunities to grow, but the NBA is a results-driven league. For Kawamura to secure a permanent spot on the roster, he must find a way to overcome his offensive deficiencies.

What’s Next for Kawamura?

Kawamura’s story is one of resilience and determination. His ability to thrive as a playmaker in both the G League and international competitions suggests he has the potential to succeed at the NBA level. However, his scoring issues remain a significant obstacle, and how he addresses this challenge will determine his future.

As the Grizzlies continue to evaluate Kawamura, they must balance patience with pragmatism. His passing and leadership are undeniable assets, but his shooting struggles could eventually test the team’s willingness to wait for his development.

For now, Kawamura’s journey remains one of the most compelling narratives in basketball. Whether he rises above his current struggles or succumbs to the harsh realities of the league, his story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of greatness against all odds.