Yuki Kawamura says, “I am where I am now because I was able to grow in the B League and the national team.” Chairman Shimada congratulates him on his two-way contract, and looks forward to his NBA debut and this contract | Basketball | Sports Bull (Spo Bull)

Basketball B League chairman Shinji Shimada updated his X (formerly Twitter) on the 20th. “I received a call from Yuki Kawamura,” he posted, encouraging and congratulating Kawamura, who signed a two-way contract with the NBA’s Grizzlies.

This contract allows him to go back and forth between the Grizzlies and their affiliated teams in the lower G League, making a big step toward becoming the first Japanese player from the B League to become an NBA player. Chairman Shimada said, “He said, “I’m here today because I’ve grown as a member of the B.League national team.” His humanity and determination are amazing.” He added, “I’m looking forward to being on the court and winning this contract.” Congratulations,” he said, looking forward to Kawamura’s future.

Kawamura belonged to Yokohama BC in the B League 1st division (B1) until last season, and won the MVP and Rookie of the Year awards in the 2022-23 season. He also played an active role in this summer’s Paris Olympics, where he represented Japan.