Chicago Bulls Make Roster Move, Sign Yuki Kawamura to Two-Way Contract

Though the Chicago Bulls have experienced a rollercoaster season following a hot start to the 2025-26 campaign, a recent roster move could inject some optimism both at the NBA and G-League levels.

According to HoopsHype’s Mike Scotto, the Bulls waived 6-foot-9 two-way forward Trentyn Flowers, opening a spot that was immediately filled by the signing of Yuki Kawamura on a two-way deal. Scotto shared via X on Tuesday evening, “The Chicago Bulls are signing Yuki Kawamura to a two-way contract, league sources told HoopsHype. Kawamura replaces Trentyn Flowers, who was just waived by Chicago.”

The 24-year-old Japanese guard stands 5-foot-7, but his impact on the court far exceeds his stature. Kawamura first made a name for himself in the NBA and G-League system with the Memphis Grizzlies and their affiliate, the Memphis Hustle, after going undrafted in 2024. His playmaking and three-point shooting ability quickly made him a standout in the G-League, demonstrating skills that could translate to the NBA level with the right opportunity.

During the 2024-25 season with the Hustle, Kawamura appeared in 24 regular-season games, averaging an impressive 12.4 points, 7.8 assists, and 1.3 steals per contest, while shooting 41.0% from three-point range. His crisp passing, court awareness, and ability to stretch the floor made him an instant weapon for the Hustle’s offense, providing a dynamic presence as both a facilitator and scorer.

Despite his G-League success, Kawamura saw limited NBA minutes with the Grizzlies during the same season. He played just 4.2 minutes per game across 22 contests, averaging 1.6 points and 0.9 assists. While his time in Memphis’ NBA rotation was limited, it offered him exposure to high-level competition and a taste of what is required to succeed at the next level.

A Fresh Opportunity in Chicago

The Bulls’ decision to sign Kawamura to a two-way deal presents him with a new opportunity to prove himself in the Windy City system. Two-way contracts allow players to split time between the NBA team and its G-League affiliate, giving Kawamura the chance to make an immediate impact with the Windy City Bulls, while keeping his sights set on a potential NBA call-up.

For Chicago, Kawamura brings a combination of experience, versatility, and shooting prowess that could fill a much-needed niche on both the NBA roster and in the G-League. His ability to run an offense, distribute the ball, and hit from beyond the arc makes him a valuable asset for a team seeking to boost depth at guard and create more spacing for star scorers like Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan.

Standing at just 5-foot-7, Kawamura’s game relies heavily on quickness, intelligence, and timing rather than physical dominance. Observers have noted his uncanny ability to play larger than his size suggests, navigating through defenses with poise and precision. This skill set, coupled with his proven G-League success, could make him a unique and impactful contributor in Chicago’s developmental system.

Kawamura’s Background and Impact

Hailing from Japan, Kawamura has emerged as one of the most promising international prospects to come through the G-League system in recent years. His rise underscores the globalization of basketball talent, as teams increasingly look abroad for players who can make an immediate impact in multiple facets of the game.

Kawamura’s previous stint with the Hustle demonstrated his ability to excel as both a scorer and a floor general. Averaging 7.8 assists per game in his rookie G-League season highlights his vision and leadership, showing that he is not merely a shooter but also a facilitator capable of running a professional offense. His 1.3 steals per game indicate defensive acumen and quick hands, traits that are invaluable for a guard competing in high-tempo systems.

What This Means for the Bulls

For Chicago, signing Kawamura is about more than simply filling a roster spot. It reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to developing young talent through two-way contracts, ensuring a pipeline between the NBA and G-League teams. Kawamura’s presence provides the Windy City Bulls with a high-level option at guard and gives the main team a versatile, sharpshooting backup who can contribute in situational minutes.

Head coach Billy Donovan and the front office will likely monitor Kawamura closely, assessing how his skill set translates to the NBA level. Success with the Windy City Bulls could lead to an expanded role in Chicago’s rotation, particularly as injuries or fatigue create opportunities later in the season.

This signing also signals a clear organizational philosophy: the Bulls are willing to invest in international talent and undrafted prospects who demonstrate skill, determination, and a proven track record in professional basketball—even if they are not immediately household names in the NBA.

Looking Ahead

As Kawamura begins his tenure with Chicago, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if he can replicate his Hustle success at the next level. His combination of elite three-point shooting, playmaking, and quickness makes him an intriguing player to follow, particularly in high-leverage G-League and NBA situations.

For the Bulls, the move represents a strategic bet on upside and development, with the potential to pay dividends for both the Windy City Bulls and the main roster. If Kawamura can translate his dynamic game into consistent NBA contributions, he could become a key rotational guard, providing depth, scoring, and international flair to Chicago’s lineup.