Yuki Kawamura-Ja Morant Relationship, Explained: How Grizzlies’ Teammates Developed NBA’s Funniest Friendship

On By Littum

Throughout its history, the NBA has been full of dynamic duos. The league’s newest duo is taking the world by storm, and it’s not directly related to production on the field.

Grizzlies star Ja Morant and undrafted rookie Yuki Kawamura have quickly developed a bond that has endeared them to fans from near and far. As Kawamura negotiated a two-way contract with Memphis, he quickly gained favor with Morant, and the two formed a healthy bond.

Here’s more on the relationship between one of the league’s most electrifying players and an undrafted rookie.

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Yuki Kawamura-Ja Morant relationship, explained

Grizzlies signed Kawamura to a September 6 training camp deal. Weeks later, training camp opened and fans got their first glimpse of the Kawamura-Morant bond during an open practice at FedEx Forum.

When the rookies began a dance competition, Kawamura paid homage to Morant by including a rendition of Griddy in his routine. The crowd loved Kawamura’s moves, and Morant decided to join the rookie and dance at midfield.

As impressive as Kawamura’s dance moves were, his play on the field during training camp and the preseason impressed Memphis’ front office. Kawamura signed a two-way contract with the franchise on October 19, and Morant celebrated by simply sharing a photo of Kawamura on X (formerly Twitter).

The relationship is much more than just for show. As the regular season approached, the Grizzlies players and staff gathered for a 2000s-themed party. Morant and Kawamura posed for a photo that the basketball world loved.

The post below has nearly 600,000 views in a matter of weeks.

As the season began, Morant and Kawamura celebrated Memphis’ season-opening win with a post shared on an Instagram story.

Days later, Morant got a bucket and pointed to Kawamura, who then pulled out a “too small” celebration from the bench.

MORE: Meet Grizzlies fan favorite Yuki Kawamura

At 5-8, Kawamura is the league’s shortest player this season, but he explained that he learned the celebration from Morant, who, like other Grizzlies teammates, is teaching in Kawamura more about American culture.

Even after Morant left early with an injury, he watched proudly from the tunnel as Kawamura scored his first NBA points in a win over the Lakers.

As the duo’s relationship grows, so does Kawamura’s comfort level in the league. As a player on a two-way contract, he will split his time with the Grizzlies and their G League affiliate, the Memphis Hustle.

Regardless, having the support and friendship of the face of the franchise will only help Kawamura as he continues to navigate life in the NBA.