The Chicago Bulls are giving Yuki Kawamura another chance because he impressed during Summer League, provides potential point guard depth, can contribute on a two-way deal with the G League, and is a marketing asset for the huge Japanese fanbase.
The Chicago Bulls have officially re-signed Japanese point guard Yuki Kawamura.
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The team had waived him before the 2025-26 season due to a right lower leg injury, so exactly how healthy he is remains uncertain.
That said, it's safe to assume the Bulls wouldn't have brought him back if the 24-year-old playmaker wasn't ready to play.
Kawamura's deal is a two-way contract, which means he can split his time between Chicago's main roster and their G League affiliate, the Windy City Bulls.
Windy City's next three games are in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, starting Thursday against the Delaware Blue Coats.
While Kawamura could see some minutes with the NBA team, it's likely he'll spend most of his time in the G League, given the Bulls' depth at the guard position.
Chicago's roster already includes guards Josh Giddey, Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu, Kevin Huerter, Tre Jones, Isaac Okoro, and Jevon Carter. Even forward Matas Buzelis can handle the ball.
Credit AP - Scanpix
The approaching Feb. 5 trade deadline might impact Kawamura's playing time. If the Bulls decide to sell off pieces and focus on draft positioning, more two-way players could see action.
With Giddey currently sidelined by a hamstring injury, Kawamura also provides a potential backup at point guard.
Off the court, Kawamura brings significant marketing value, boosting jersey sales and social media engagement with every appearance.
Credit AP - Scanpix
Last season with the Memphis Grizzlies, he played in just 22 games, averaging 4.2 minutes per outing, with 1.6 points and 0.9 assists per game.
In the G League, however, he averaged a double-double of 13.7 points and 10.7 assists per game.
Kawamura first joined the Bulls during the 2025 Summer League, where he impressed enough in Las Vegas to earn one of the team's three two-way contracts. He also played in two preseason games before his injury, totaling 6 points, 8 assists, and 8 rebounds.
Yuki will have his first chance to suit up for the Bulls on Wednesday against the Detroit Pistons and could play again on Thursday in a back-to-back game against the Miami Heat.
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