The Chicago Bulls have moved swiftly to bolster their backcourt depth, announcing the return of popular Japanese guard Yuki Kawamura on a two-way contract. The move, confirmed by the organization on Tuesday, comes in the wake of a prolonged hamstring injury to key guard Josh Giddey. To create the necessary roster spot, the Bulls waived forward Trentyn Flowers.
Kawamura's Journey Back to the Windy City
This marks a significant comeback for the 24-year-old Kawamura, who was surprisingly let go by the Bulls less than three months ago due to a medical issue concerning his right lower leg. His initial path to Chicago began with a strong showing in the 2025 Summer League, which earned him one of the team's coveted two-way contracts. However, his preseason was cut short after appearing in just two games for the Bulls, where he averaged 3.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists.
Before his brief stint with Chicago, Kawamura made his NBA debut with the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2024-2025 season. Playing on a two-way deal there, he appeared in 22 games, averaging 1.6 points in limited minutes of 4.2 per game. His professional roots are deep in Japan's B.League, where he played five seasons starting at age 18, putting up impressive averages of 16.7 points, 7.3 assists, and 3.0 rebounds, and earning MVP honors in 2023.
Roster Reshuffle: Flowers Waived for Kawamura
The Bulls' public relations team confirmed that forward Trentyn Flowers was waived to facilitate Kawamura's signing. Flowers himself had an interesting trajectory, having been signed by the Bulls in October after being let go by the Los Angeles Clippers, ironically filling the roster spot left by Kawamura's initial release. The 2024 undrafted player, who chose to play overseas instead of attending college, has recently garnered interest from NCAA programs exploring avenues to recruit similar talents.
While the exact current status of Kawamura's health remains unspecified, the Bulls' decision to sign him strongly suggests the medical staff believes he is ready to contribute. The timing is crucial for a Bulls team sitting ninth in the Eastern Conference with a 17-19 record and in need of backcourt stability.
International Pedigree and Fan Appeal
Beyond the statistics, Yuki Kawamura brings significant international experience and fan appeal to the Bulls. He is a cornerstone of the Japanese national team, having played a pivotal role in their 2023 FIBA World Cup campaign. Most recently, he showcased his talents on the global stage at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where he averaged an impressive 20.3 points and 7.7 assists for Japan.
His return is expected to provide an immediate spark, both on the court and in terms of global interest in the franchise. The Bulls' G League affiliate, the Windy City Bulls, based in Hoffman Estates, have their next game scheduled for Thursday against the Delaware Blue Coats, which could be a potential debut platform for Kawamura in his renewed stint with the organization.
