The Bulls, who released forward Trentyn Flowers in a related move, completed a two-way deal with Kawamura, who averaged 20.3 points, 7.7 assists and 3.3 rebounds for Japan at the Olympics.
In 22 games last season for Memphis, Kawamura averaged 1.6 points in a reserve role.
Kawamura played for Chicago in two pre-season games in 2025, averaging 3.0 points, 4.0 rebounds and 4.0 assists.
Kawamura spent five seasons in the Japanese B League starting at age 18, averaging 16.7 points, 7.3 assists and 3.0 rebounds and taking the Most Valuable Player award in 2023.
The Bulls are 17-19 and rank ninth in the NBA Eastern Conference this season.
© 2026 AFP