Japan B.League eyes historic collaboration with PBA for 2025 anniversary celebrations

The Japan B.League is reportedly planning a collaboration with the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) to celebrate its 10-year anniversary next year.

The Japan B.League’s executive officer for international business, Nao Okamoto, confirmed during a press conference that they are currently in discussions with PBA commissioner Willie Marcial regarding potential collaborative projects between the two leagues.

“Is there a chance for an All-Star Game? Yes. We have been communicating with Mr. Willie Marcial. We have also been talking with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP),” Okamoto stated.

Kinumpirma ni Nao Okamoto, executive officer ng international business ng Japan B. League, na posible ang kolaborasyon ng numero unong liga sa bansa at Japan B. League.#SportsNow #DWAR1494 #JapanBLeague #PBA #BasketballCollaboration pic.twitter.com/QewGZ9iq1k

— Abante Radyo DWAR 1494 (@DWAR1494) May 22, 2025

Notably, the 2025–26 season will mark the 50th anniversary of the PBA, the oldest professional basketball league in Asia. In addition to being the B.League’s 10th anniversary, 2025 also marks 70 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan.

Willie Marcial added that the PBA and Japan B.League teams could play exhibition games, although no specific details were disclosed.

“We have a plan, but the B.League doesn’t want to reveal it yet. Maybe we could have exhibition games. It’s good for them to see the brand of Philippine basketball, and we can also learn from their style of play,” Marcial said.

It’s worth noting that Marcial, along with PBA Board Treasurer Atty. Raymond Zorrilla and SBP Executive Director Erika Dy, attended the 2025 Japan B.League Asia All-Star Weekend in January of this year. Marcial expressed his amazement at the event’s organization, particularly the punctuality of the hosts. He also exchanged notes with B.League officials and discussed potential future joint projects.

Several top Filipino players currently play in the Japan B.League, including Dwight Ramos, Kiefer Ravena, Matthew Wright, AJ Edu, Bobby Ray Parks, and Kai Sotto. The league has become a premier destination for Filipino talent to develop their skills and gain international experience.

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