Is Yuki Kawamura playing tonight against Kings? Latest on NBA's shortest player's availability for Grizzlies (Jan. 3)

NBA: Denver Nuggets at Memphis Grizzlies - Source: Imagn
Yuki Kawamura (Image Source: Imagn)

Yuki Kawamura's is doubtful for the Memphis Grizzlies' matchup against the Sacramento Kings on Friday. The NBA's shortest player this season, standing at 5-foot-8, is listed as "questionable" on the Grizzlies' injury report due to a left shoulder injury.

Kawamura was sidelined during Memphis' 117-112 win over the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday. The Japanese guard last played in the Grizzlies' 130-106 loss to the OKC Thunder on Sunday, where he delivered an impressive individual performance despite the team’s struggles.

In just 11 minutes on the court, Kawamura scored 10 points on an efficient 4 of 5 shooting, including 2 of 3 from beyond the arc. He also added three rebounds and three assists, showcasing his versatility and impact in limited action.

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Yuki Kawamura’s commendable effort did not go unnoticed, as one of the league's top MVP contenders, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, praised the young guard for his performance.

"(Yuki Kawamura is a) really good basketball player," Gilgeous-Alexander told reporters. "You can see he had like 10 points in five minutes and like, three assists. (He is) very skilled, knows how to play basketball.
"It's cool to see that despite the size that he can play out there. And it goes back to what I said,fIf you have feel, you can play. No matter what."

The young guard has suited up for the Grizzlies in 15 games this season and averages 1.6 points per game.

How to watch Yuki Kawamura in action during Grizzlies vs. Kings game

The Memphis Grizzlies will take on the Sacramento Kings on Friday, Jan. 3, at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. The game is set to begin at 10 p.m. EST (7 p.m. PT).

Fans can catch the action live on NBCS-CA (local) and FDSSE (local). For those looking to stream the game, it will be available on NBA League Pass and the Fubo TV app or website, though regional restrictions may apply.

Grizzlies Nation! You can check out the latest Memphis Grizzlies Schedule and dive into the Grizzlies Depth Chart for NBA Season 2024-25.

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Edited by Atishay Jain
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