In a surprising and exciting development, the Chicago Bulls have added a unique talent to their 2025 NBA Summer League roster: Yuki Kawamura, standing at just 5’8″, making him one of the shortest players in NBA history. The Japanese international, previously with the Memphis Grizzlies, will join forces with rising star Matas Buzelis and other promising talents in Las Vegas, creating buzz among fans eager to see how this dynamic lineup performs.
A Bold Addition to the Bulls’ Summer League Squad
The Chicago Bulls’ Summer League roster is generating significant attention, not only for the inclusion of second-year forward Matas Buzelis and 2025 first-round draft pick Noa Essengue but also for the unexpected signing of Yuki Kawamura. At 5’8″, Kawamura is notably shorter than most NBA players, yet his skill set and tenacity make him a standout. During his stint with the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2024-25 season, Kawamura made his NBA debut, becoming the league’s shortest active player at the time. In 22 games with the Grizzlies, he showcased his playmaking ability, notably posting 12 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists in 28 minutes during their final game of the season.
Kawamura’s journey to the Bulls follows a remarkable rookie season in the NBA G League with the Memphis Hustle, where he shot an impressive 41% from three-point range and had eight games with four or more made threes. His ability to thrive in a fast-paced, “run-and-gun” system aligns perfectly with the Bulls’ style of play, making him a potential dark horse for a roster spot. His signing is a testament to the Bulls’ commitment to finding versatile, high-energy players who can contribute regardless of physical limitations.
Teaming Up with Matas Buzelis
Kawamura will share the Summer League spotlight with Matas Buzelis, the Bulls’ 2024 first-round pick (11th overall), who has already shown flashes of stardom in his rookie season. The 6’10” Lithuanian-American forward, known for his athleticism and versatility, is expected to play limited minutes in Las Vegas as the Bulls prioritize his health for the upcoming 2025-26 season, where he is penciled in as the starting power forward. Buzelis had a strong rookie campaign, highlighted by a career-high 31 points against the Los Angeles Lakers and his commitment to the 2025 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, making him the first Lithuanian player to participate. His combination of size, skill, and hometown pride (born and raised in Chicago) has made him a fan favorite.
The pairing of Kawamura and Buzelis is particularly intriguing. While Buzelis brings height, athleticism, and defensive prowess (averaging 2.0 blocks and 2.0 steals per game in the 2024 Summer League), Kawamura offers savvy playmaking and long-range shooting. Their contrasting styles could create a dynamic on-court chemistry, with Kawamura’s quickness and vision setting up Buzelis for highlight-reel dunks and open looks. Bulls fans are eager to see how these two, alongside Noa Essengue and other young talents like Lachlan Olbrich and Javon Freeman-Liberty, gel during the Summer League.
Kawamura’s Place in NBA History
At 5’8″, Yuki Kawamura is among the shortest players to ever compete in the NBA, standing taller than only Muggsy Bogues (5’3″) and a select few others in league history. Despite his height, Kawamura has proven he can hold his own against taller competition, using his quickness, court vision, and shooting ability to counter size disadvantages. His cult following in Memphis, coupled with a massive fanbase in Japan, adds an extra layer of excitement to his arrival in Chicago. Kawamura’s inclusion on the Summer League roster is a chance for him to prove he can contribute to an NBA team, potentially earning a two-way contract with the Bulls or another organization.
Historically, short players like Muggsy Bogues, Spud Webb, and Calvin Murphy have left indelible marks on the NBA, proving that heart and skill can overcome physical limitations. Kawamura, with his relentless drive and playmaking flair, aims to follow in their footsteps. His performance in Las Vegas will be closely watched, as a strong showing could solidify his place in the league.
Other Notable Names on the Roster
The Bulls’ Summer League roster is stacked with talent beyond Kawamura and Buzelis. Noa Essengue, the No. 12 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, brings athleticism and potential as a 6’10” wing, offering Bulls fans a first look at his playmaking ability alongside Buzelis. Lachlan Olbrich, a second-round pick expected to play on a two-way contract, adds depth, while local favorite Javon Freeman-Liberty, a Chicago native and former DePaul standout, returns for his second Summer League stint with the Bulls. Additionally, Josh Primo, a former No. 12 overall pick by the San Antonio Spurs in 2021, is a wildcard addition looking to revive his NBA career after a challenging start.
What to Expect in Las Vegas
The Bulls kick off their Summer League campaign on July 11, 2025, against the Toronto Raptors, followed by matchups against the Sacramento Kings (July 12), Indiana Pacers (July 14), and Milwaukee Bucks (July 16). Should they qualify, the Summer League playoffs begin on July 19. While Buzelis may see limited action to avoid injury, players like Kawamura, Essengue, and Freeman-Liberty are expected to get significant minutes to showcase their skills. For Kawamura, this is a golden opportunity to prove he belongs in the NBA, while Buzelis will aim to build on his impressive rookie season.
A New Chapter for the Bulls
The Chicago Bulls are in the midst of a youth movement, with young stars like Buzelis, Essengue, and others signaling a shift toward building for the future. The addition of Yuki Kawamura, though unconventional, underscores the team’s willingness to take chances on unique talents. As the Summer League approaches, all eyes will be on this intriguing roster, particularly the pairing of the shortest player in the NBA and the towering, athletic Buzelis. Will Kawamura’s playmaking and shooting prowess earn him a permanent spot? Can Buzelis continue to prove he’s a cornerstone for the Bulls’ future? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this Summer League will be must-watch basketball for Bulls fans.