The Memphis Grizzlies faced off against the Dallas Mavericks in their first preseason game on October 7. Japanese star Yuki Kawamura made his debut as a substitute, scoring a three-pointer and adding two free throws for a total of 5 points in just 9 minutes of play. The Grizzlies ultimately defeated the Mavericks 121-116.
This matchup marked a special return for Ja Morant, who hadn’t played for nine months. He was joined by newly drafted players Zach Edey and Jaylen Wells, as well as Kawamura, who signed with the team earlier last month. The Mavericks were without their key players Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, and Klay Thompson.
Zach Edey, the Canadian-Chinese center drafted in the first round by the Grizzlies, started the game and made an impact in the second quarter. He executed a thrilling alley-oop dunk off a board pass from Morant, finishing the game with 6 points, 7 rebounds, 1 block, and 1 steal.
Standing at 173 cm, Kawamura demonstrated impressive confidence during his debut. He quickly made his mark in the fourth quarter, hitting a three-pointer off an assist from Jake LaRavia, followed by two successful free throws after drawing a foul. He further showcased his playmaking skills by assisting teammates, including a no-look pass to Jay Huff for a reverse dunk. In total, Kawamura finished with 5 points and 3 assists, making a noteworthy impression in his first NBA preseason game.
Morant also contributed significantly with 13 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists, despite briefly injuring his right ankle in the second quarter. After the game, he assured fans there was no major issue.
