Shortest NBA Player Wins Jump Ball Against Taller Opponent

Yuki Kawamura, the shortest active player in the NBA, defied the odds by winning a jump ball against his 6-foot-5 opponent.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 2:47pm

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Yuki Kawamura, the 5-foot-7 Japanese player who is the shortest active player in the NBA and the shortest in Chicago Bulls history, made his debut with the Bulls on January 31 against the Miami Heat. In a surprising moment, Kawamura won a jump ball against his 6-foot-5 opponent, Kasparas Jakučionis, helping the Bulls secure a 125-118 victory.

Why it matters

Kawamura's jump ball win against a much taller opponent is an inspiring underdog story that highlights his incredible talent and determination. As the shortest player in the NBA, his success challenges assumptions about height and athletic ability in professional basketball.

The details

In the game against the Miami Heat, Kawamura was facing a 10-inch height disadvantage when he was forced into a jump ball against Jakučionis. However, Kawamura was able to time his jump perfectly, hitting the ball first and gaining possession for the Bulls. Kawamura finished the game with 6 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals in just 11 minutes of play.

  • Kawamura made his NBA debut with the Chicago Bulls on January 31, 2026 against the Miami Heat.

The players

Yuki Kawamura

The shortest active player in the NBA and the shortest player in Chicago Bulls history, at 5-foot-7.

Kasparas Jakučionis

A 6-foot-5 guard for the Miami Heat who was Kawamura's opponent in the jump ball.

Billy Donovan

The head coach of the Chicago Bulls, who praised Kawamura's hard work and recovery from a blood clot injury.

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What they’re saying

“It was my first win since I started basketball … I'm so happy.”

— Yuki Kawamura

“Yuki was on him like a wolverine. We're gonna see the shortest player in ball's history go up for a jump ball!”

— Announcer

“He won the tap! Yuki, here he comes. 5-foot-8 [sic], winning the tap!”

— Announcer

What’s next

The Chicago Bulls will continue their season, looking to build on Kawamura's inspiring debut performance.

The takeaway

Yuki Kawamura's jump ball victory against a much taller opponent demonstrates that height is not everything in basketball, and that determination, skill, and timing can overcome physical disadvantages. His success inspires hope for other undersized athletes pursuing their dreams in professional sports.