Filipino Basketball Players Shine in Japan's B.League, Eyeing Olympic Return
Source: news.source.manilatimes
NAO Okamoto from Japan's B.League visited the Philippines to enhance basketball relations, highlighting the success of Filipino players in the league and expressing optimism about their potential to help the Philippines return to the Olympic stage. The visit coincides with the B.League Final Week Manila 2025, and involves discussions on joint projects with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) and the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). Notable Filipino players in the B.League include Ray Parks, Kai Sotto, Kiefer Ravena, and others, who are seen as key to achieving the SBP's goal of Olympic qualification.
Key Points
NAO Okamoto visited the Philippines to strengthen basketball ties with SBP and PBA.
Eight Filipino players are currently playing in the B.League's B1 and B2 divisions.
Filipino players like Ray Parks, Kai Sotto, and others are seen as potential contributors to the Philippines' Olympic aspirations.
Japan's success in the FIBA World Cup has led to their return to the Olympic basketball scene.
SBP executive director Erika Dy aims to see both men's and women's teams, as well as 3x3 teams, qualify for the Olympics.
