21 is the exact number of assists Yuki Kawamura dished out during the preseason, a team-high for the Grizzlies. Not only the volume, the quality was also eye-catching with the Japanese guard’s passing reminding people of “White Chocolate” Jason Williams. But moreover, there’s another significant number for Yuki. 17, that’s the number he donned for the Memphis franchise and this digit came with its own pressure.

For the MLB fans 17 means Shohei Ohtani. The baseball icon dons the same for the Dodgers. So when Yuki got his jersey from the Grizzlies it was about keeping the prestige of it and his fellow Japanese. And as things stand, Kawamura has done justice to it as the Grizzlies are giving him the final roster spot.

As disclosed by Shams Charania earlier today, the Memphis team are signing Kawamura to a two-way deal. After his impressive showing in the pre-season that was an anticipated move from Zach Kleiman.

Following his first official training with his new teammates, Kawamura disclosed, “The number doesn’t have deep meaning for me personally.” He realized the connection it holds after he had picked the number. “But I can’t embarrass myself out there now,” the 5-foot-8 point guard confessed. “I have to play well enough to make everyone think wearing No. 17 in America means something.” Baseball is a major sport in Japan as well and Shohei Ohtani’s blockbuster success on the US soil, the chip is on Yuki’s shoulders to carry the flag of his country in the NBA. With that passion to make it big in the league, Kawamura is heading towards the new season with the Grizzlies, ready to make statement.

Yuki Kawamura reveals he has a strong statement to prove

The 23-year-old grabbed a lot of attention during the Paris Olympics with his brilliance on the hardwood. And within two months, Kawamura paved his path to the NBA. If you think he must be satisfied with what he has achieved, then you couldn’t be more wrong. The budding star still has a goal to accomplish.

“Have to prove to my team-mates and the coaching staff that I can play,” Kawamura stated in the interview. He is aware that if he slips, he’ll be removed from the roster. So he works hard every day and reminds himself of the goal he has set.

By confirming his contract, the franchise has given Kawamura all the more reason to work hard. With the passionate guard willing to push his limits, the Grizzlies could be interesting to keep an eye on. With an injury-free roster, the Memphis side is one of the dark horses of the Westerner conference with many experts tipping them for playoffs. Can they do that with a fit Ja Morant? Share your thoughts below!