Yuki Kawamura has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in the NBA, not just for his on-court skills, but for breaking the mold as one of the shortest players in the league’s modern era. From Japan’s B.League to donning the iconic Chicago Bulls jersey, Kawamura’s journey is a compelling story of talent, tenacity, and global basketball impact.
Who is Yuki Kawamura?
Yuki Kawamura (河村 勇輝), born on May 2, 2001, in Yanai, Yamaguchi, Japan, is a professional basketball player who currently plays as a point guard for the Chicago Bulls of the National Basketball Association (NBA) under a two-way contract with the Windy City Bulls of the NBA G League. He has also represented the Japan national team, including at the 2023 FIBA World Cup and 2024 Olympics.
Salary: How Much Does Yuki Kawamura Earn?
In the 2025-26 NBA season, Kawamura’s reported salary is approximately $636,435 while on his two-way deal with the Chicago Bulls.
This salary reflects his status as a two-way player — a contract type that lets him split time between the NBA and G League while earning a salary between the two leagues’ scales. His salary saw a meaningful increase from his 2024-25 season, when he earned roughly $578,577 with the Memphis Grizzlies.
NBA Highlights and Breakout Moments
While Kawamura’s NBA minutes have been limited, his impactful performances have captured fans’ attention:
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NBA Debut and Bulls Contribution: After signing with the Bulls following a Summer League stint, Kawamura made his regular-season debut on January 31, 2026, recording 6 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals in a win against the Miami Heat — a remarkable all-around showing in a short burst of action.
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Global Stage Success: Before coming to the NBA, Kawamura was a standout in Japan’s B.League, winning Most Valuable Player, Rookie of the Year, and assist leader honors — proving his high basketball IQ and playmaking skills.
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Olympic Performance: As a key member of Japan’s national team in the 2024 Olympics, he averaged notable statistics that underscored his ability to compete at the highest international levels.
Bulls Jersey and Fan Following
Yuki Kawamura wears the #8 jersey for the Chicago Bulls — a number that already carries historic significance in the franchise.
Since joining the Bulls, Kawamura has become a fan favorite, drawing attention not only from Japanese supporters but from NBA fans worldwide due to his high energy, fearless playstyle, and underdog story. His jersey sales show a growing international interest that reflects the globalization of the NBA.
College and Early Career Path
Unlike many NBA players who follow the NCAA route, Kawamura played college basketball at Tokai University in Japan before entering professional basketball. He went undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft but carved his path through Japan’s professional B.League and strong international play.
Before the NBA, he starred with the Yokohama B-Corsairs and had stints with San-en NeoPhoenix, earning league accolades and proving that elite talent exists outside traditional U.S. college pipelines.
Height: Defying the Odds at 5’7”
Yuki Kawamura stands 5 feet 7 inches (1.73 m) tall, making him one of the shortest players in the NBA during the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons.
Despite his height disadvantage in a league dominated by towering athletes, Kawamura’s quickness, ball handling, and basketball IQ have enabled him to compete at the highest level — challenging traditional expectations about size and performance in professional basketball.
Conclusion
Yuki Kawamura’s rise from Japanese high school phenom to NBA two-way contributor highlights a journey defined by skill and perseverance. His salary, on-court highlights, Bulls jersey appeal, international pedigree, and unique height profile make him one of the most intriguing global basketball stories today. As his career continues to evolve, Kawamura’s influence will likely grow — inspiring fans across borders.
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