Japan Sets Sights on Los Angeles 2028 with Dedicated 3×3 Team

The Japan Basketball Association (JBA) has announced the roster for its 3×3 specialized team, “Team TOKYO 2026,” signaling a focused effort to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The team, comprised of players currently active in the B.League, will dedicate their off-season to 3×3 training and participation in the FIBA 3×3 Men’s Pro Circuit.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Japan’s presence in 3×3 basketball, alongside the 3×3 Japan Men’s National Team and the 3×3 Men’s U23/U21 Japan National Teams.

Meet the Players of Team TOKYO 2026

The JBA has assembled a diverse roster of talent for Team TOKYO 2026. Here’s a look at the players and their initial reactions:

• Kennedy Thomas (Seahorse Mikawa, 201cm, 38 years old):
  

  Playing for the Japan national team is still special. No matter how many times I experience it, the moment I set on that jersey warms my heart. I stand on the court with pride, responsibility, and gratitude on my back. All of that motivates me. My commitment to the 3×3 and my determination to play for the Japan national team are stronger than ever.

• Taiji Nakamura (Shimane Susanoo Magic, 190cm, 28 years old):
  

  I believe my career will change greatly depending on whether I participate in the Olympics or not. Since I’ve been given this chance, I want to aim for the Olympics and do my best together to get there.

• Shintaro Ehara (Shiga Lakes, 192cm, 24 years old):
  

  3×3 is still not as popular as 5-a-side, but it’s a fun sport to play, and watch. I have a strong desire to make it more popular in Japan and increase the number of players. If I can participate in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, I think it will become more popular and more people will play, so I want to do my best.

• Masato Ogawa (Kyoto Hannary’s, 176cm, 24 years old):
  

  One of the charms of 3×3 is that there is no head coach during games. I’m as well looking forward to the fact that the players have to think and play on their own, and the players have to communicate with each other. It’s important to always talk like a family, and I want to work hard over time so that we can become a family.

• Holtz Jake Yukiteru (Nagoya Diamond Dolphins, 194cm, 24 years old):
  

  My goal is to participate in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics and compete on the world stage. I want to continue working hard and aim for the world title, and I definitely want to get there.

• Higen Hasegawa (Shiga Lakes, 202cm, 20 years old):
  

  I think this is a tournament I have to go to in order to aim for a higher level. I see it as a positive to have been given this chance. My career has been about trying things out rather than staying in my comfort zone, so I’m more excited than nervous.

Team Leadership

The team will be led by:

• Team Leader: Mitsuhiro Hirota (Japan Basketball Association)
• Head Coach: Yoshito Nakaso (Japan Basketball Association)
• Coach: Keita Suzuki (Out Number Co., Ltd.)
• Athletic Trainer: Kaori Okamoto (Japan Basketball Association)
• Team Manager: Kai Rafael Kotaki (Japan Basketball Association)

Recent JBA History & 3×3 Focus

The JBA, formed in 1930 and based in Tokyo, is a member of FIBA and FIBA Asia. The federation oversees both the men’s and women’s national basketball teams, as well as the B.League, which commenced in October 2016. The current JBA president is Yuko Mitsuya (as of April 2021).

The JBA was previously suspended by FIBA in 2014 due to restructuring issues and the merging of competing leagues, but has since regained full membership and is actively working to develop basketball at all levels in Japan.

FAQ

• What is Team TOKYO 2026?
  We see a specialized 3×3 team created by the Japan Basketball Association to prepare for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
• Who is the current president of the JBA?
  Yuko Mitsuya (as of April 2021).
• What leagues does the JBA oversee?
  The JBA oversees the Japan national basketball teams and the B.League.