Yuki Kawamura, the 23-year-old star of the Memphis Hustle, made headlines during the team's season opener against the San Diego Clippers on December 27, 2024. The young point guard delivered an impressive performance, scoring 23 points, including seven three-pointers, though his team ended up on the losing side.
Kawamura's shooting prowess was apparent early on, as he netted four three-pointers by halftime, contributing 14 points to the Hustle's efforts. The first quarter saw him sink his first three-pointer just moments after the game started, setting the tone for what would be a high-scoring night for him. With the Hustle trailing 61-64 at the half, Kawamura aimed to ignite his team's comeback with his sharpshooting form.
The game marked the beginning of the regular season after the completion of scouting events and the G League's winter showcase, where teams sought to gauge player performances leading up to this pivotal moment. Kawamura showcased his capability to shoot from distance, successfully making deep three-pointers from various spots on the court, and highlighted his versatility with multiple assists during the match.
Despite his individual success, the result was difficult to swallow for both Kawamura and the Hustle. The team was unable to overcome the deficit established by the Clippers, leading to their loss. Kawamura remarked after the game, "I was just focusing on my shots and trying to help the team any way I could," showcasing his commitment to contribute positively, even amid adversity.
Throughout the game, Kawamura displayed exceptional skills, underscoring his potential as he tries to carve out his niche within the G League and someday the NBA. Playing approximately 33.9 minutes on average during the previous seven games before this one, he had been averaging 13.7 points along with 10.7 assists. His field goal percentage had been trailing, but his offensive explosion against the Clippers proved he could still deliver high-stakes performance.
While the loss was disappointing, Kawamura's ability to make seven three-pointers, his best since moving to America, stands as a strong highlight of his career. With the Hustle's next games on the horizon, he will look to build on this momentum and strive for consistent performance as the season progresses.
For fans and scouts alike, Kawamura's adaptability and scoring talent offer much promise. He is expected to keep honing these skills as he pushes for opportunities at higher levels of play. With each game, Kawamura takes another step forward, proving he can shine even when the outcome isn't favorable, providing hope for brighter days locally with the Hustle's future games.
