Joetsu Minami Dominates Ichiro Nagano Cup with Double Victory

JOETSU, Japan – Joetsu Minami Minibus School showcased their basketball prowess, winning both the men’s and women’s competitions at the annual “Nagano Ichiro Cup” mini-basketball tournament held February 21st and 22nd at Region Plaza Joetsu.

Tournament Overview

The “Nagano Ichiro Cup” is a popular mini-basketball tournament for elementary school students in the Joetsu area, held in honor of Ichiro Nagano, a long-time basketball coach in Joetsu City. This year’s event marked the 17th iteration of the tournament and served as the final competition for 6th-grade students.

A unique aspect of this tournament is the allowance of 3-point shots, setting it apart from other mini-basketball competitions. This year’s tournament featured 18 men’s teams and 10 women’s teams from Joetsu, Myoko and Itoigawa.

Men’s Championship

The men’s final saw a thrilling matchup between “Joetsu Minami Minibus Classroom A” and “Kasugayama Malts A.” Joetsu Minami Minibus Classroom A took an early lead and maintained their momentum throughout the game, ultimately winning with a final score of 52-38.

Joetsu Minami Minibus Classroom Male Captain: I’m very happy. Everyone worked together in practice and we were able to show the results.

Men’s Results:

• Winner: Joetsu Minami Minibus Classroom A
• Runner-up: Kasugayama Malts A
• 3rd place: JHBC Arai Eagles

Women’s Championship

The women’s competition was a closely contested battle, with four teams advancing to the finals tied with two wins and one loss. “Joetsu Minami Minibus School” emerged victorious based on goal difference, securing their first tournament win of the season.

Joetsu Minami Minibus Classroom Female Captain: I’m glad that we all won the victory. If we had dropped even one point, we would have missed out on the victory. I’m glad we were able to make it all the way to the end.

Women’s Results:

• Winner: Joetsu Minami Minibus Classroom
• Runner-up: Joetsu Joes A
• 3rd place: Naoetsu Vert A

JCV will broadcast a special program featuring highlights from the second day of the tournament on channel 123 from March 20th through March 22nd, and again from March 28th through March 29th.

FAQ

• When and where was the Ichiro Nagano Cup held? The tournament was held on February 21st and 22nd at Region Plaza Joetsu.
• What makes this tournament unique? Unlike other mini-basketball tournaments, 3-point shots are allowed.
• Who won the men’s competition? Joetsu Minami Minibus Classroom A won the men’s competition.
• Who won the women’s competition? Joetsu Minami Minibus School won the women’s competition.