"Yuki living what Jared McCain was cosplaying": Fans react hilariously after Yuki Kawamura attempts to calm down enraged Ja Morant
Yuki Kawamura's style of play and the gusto with which he approaches the game have captured the hearts of basketball fans around the globe. At 5-foot-8, Kawamura may be the shortest player in the NBA, but the Memphis Grizzlies guard makes up for that with a deep knowledge of the game and a great attitude.
Following the Grizzlies' 135-119 win over the Brooklyn Nets on Friday, Kawamura showed off his more playful side. After a heated and physical game, Ja Morant seemed enraged on the sidelines. Kawamura was close by to calm the two-time NBA All-Star. The Grizzlies point guard tapped Morant on the chest and back as he settled him down with a big smile.
Fans on social media were in stitches after seeing Kawamura's unorthodox attempt to calm down Morant.
"Yuki living what Jared McCain was cosplaying," a fan said.
"Yuki the real fun guy," another fan commented.
"Purify Morant's heart," a fan said.
"If you have a problem with Yuki you have a problem with me," one fan commented.
Many fans were enamored by the Japanese player's lighthearted approach to the situation.
"He like the younger sibling that always follows you around," a fan said.
"He’s so cute," another fan commented.
"Yuki just want everyone to have fun," one fan said.
Yuki Kawamura was a member of the Japan team that represented the nation at the 2024 Paris Olympics. He first made a name for himself in the United States during the NBA Summer League.
Ja Morant hypes up Capital One Arena crowd after Yuki Kawamura drills late-game 3-pointer
Yuki Kawamura has not received much game time this season, but the point guard did have an opportunity to show off his skills against the Washington Wizards in a game at Capital One Arena on Dec. 8.
With the Grizzlies holding a healthy lead in the final stages of the game, Kawamura came on with just over five minutes left. The Japanese sharpshooter grabbed his opportunity with both hands, converting a late 3-pointer to excite the crowd.
Ja Morant, who was sidelined for the game, could not contain his excitement after the rookie drilled the looping 3-pointer over 6-foot-11 Marvin Bagley III. Morant jumped out of his chair and hyped up the crowd as he celebrated the special moment with his Memphis teammates.
Yuki Kawamura finished the game against the Wizards with four points and a steal. It was the most points he has scored in his young NBA career.