Yuki Kawamura, standing at 5-foot-8, has captured the attention of basketball fans since rejoining the Chicago Bulls earlier this year. The team said on Mar. 27 that social media posts featuring the 24-year-old guard have become some of their highest performing content, with nearly 130 million impressions worldwide.
Kawamura’s rise is notable not only for his height—making him both the shortest player in the NBA this season and in Bulls history—but also for his impact on and off the court. His plays have gone viral, including a video where he boxes out superstar Lebron James during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers. Another popular clip shows him hitting a three-pointer over James’ outstretched arm.
Kawamura previously played professionally in Japan and was part of Japan’s Olympic team before signing with the Memphis Grizzlies last year. After being waived due to blood clots and later re-signed by Chicago, he made an immediate impression when he forced a jump ball against Miami Heat guard Kasparas Jakucionis in his first game back on Jan. 31. “Yuki was on him like a wolverine, boy,” Bulls announcer Stacy King said in a widely shared video clip.
After one game, Kawamura told reporters: “I’ve been a big Chicago Bulls fan. I’m so happy to be here. I’m so happy we won the game tonight… We lost three in a row. I just got to bring the energy from the bench. But I’ve got to be better. I’m not satisfied yet.”
Despite averaging modest stats—11 minutes, 3 points, 2.9 assists and 1.9 rebounds per game—Kawamura’s energy has made him popular among fans at United Center and within Chicago’s Japanese American community. Mami Takahashi called it “amazing” that Kawamura is now one of only five Japanese-born players ever to play in the NBA.
John Donners of the Japanese Arts Foundation said there is strong enthusiasm among local fans: “The energy is palpable… A lot of people have been clamoring” to see him play live.
Reflecting on his reception from fans, Kawamura said: “I hear it. Honestly, it’s amazing… It’s motivation for me. I want to prove that a short player like me can play in the NBA.”
While Kawamura holds records as both this season’s shortest active NBA player and shortest Bull ever, other shorter players such as Muggsy Bogues (5-foot-3) and Spud Webb (5-foot-6) have also left their mark on league history.
