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Ja Morant Reacts to Yuki Kawamura's Failed 360 Layup

Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant sent a message to Yuki Kawamura.

Joey Linn

Oct 26, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) talks to guard Yuki Kawamura (17) during the second half against the Orlando Magic at FedExForum.
Oct 26, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) talks to guard Yuki Kawamura (17) during the second half against the Orlando Magic at FedExForum. / Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
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Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant went viral earlier this month with two 360° layups in the same game. Pulling off such a move once in a game is impressive enough, but Morant did so twice, proving why he is one of the most exciting players in the NBA.

Known for his highlight dunks, chase-down blocks, and other explosive plays, Morant showed off the finesse on these layups against the Brooklyn Nets. Faking a dunk, Morant switched hands in mid-air to finish his second 360° layup.

Via NBA: “360 FAKE DUNK & HAND SWITCH. THE SECOND TIME TONIGHT. JA MORANT IS PURE THEATER.”

Recently assigned to the Memphis Hustle for the start of the G League season, Grizzlies guard Yuki Kawamura attempted a 360° layup against the Oklahoma City Blue.

Not converting, Kawamura received a message from Morant himself:

Morant and Kawamura have developed a friendship this season since the Grizzlies signed the Japanese guard to an Exhibit 10 contract that was eventually converted into a two-way deal. Having some fun moments at the NBA level prior to the G League season beginning, Kawamura became an instant fan favorite in Memphis.

While the 5-foot-8 guard will likely spend most of his time in the G League going forward, he is living out his dream of playing professional basketball at this level. 

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Joey Linn
JOEY LINN

Title: Credentialed writer covering the NBA for Sports Illustrated's FanNation Email: joeylinn52@gmail.com Education: Communication Studies degree from Biola University Location: Los Angeles, California Expertise: NBA analysis and reporting Experience: Joey Linn is a credentialed writer covering the NBA for Sports Illustrated's FanNation. Covering the LA Clippers independently in 2018, then for Fansided and 213Hoops from 2019-2021, Joey joined Sports Illustrated's FanNation to cover the Clippers after the 2020-21 season. Graduating from Biola University in 2022 with a Communication Studies degree, Joey served as Biola's play-by-play announcer for their basketball, baseball, softball, and soccer teams during his time in school. Joey's work on Biola's broadcasts, combined with his excellence in the classroom, earned him the Outstanding Communication Studies Student of the year award in 2022. Joey covers the NBA full-time across multiple platforms, primarily serving as a credentialed Clippers beat writer.

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