By Edwin Rollon
The possibility of seeing more Filipino basketball players in Japan’s professional league is gaining traction after officials of the Saga Ballooners, one of the pioneering Division 1 teams in the Japanese B.League, visited Manila to explore opportunities for cooperation.
The delegation, led by team president Mr. Okano, toured the facilities at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex and paid a courtesy call to Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Commissioners Fritz Gaston and Olivia “Bong” Coo. Their visit was made possible through the invitation of Otsuka Philippines, the maker of Pocari Sweat, the official hydrating drink of Team Philippines since the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.
Okano emphasized that Saga has long admired the passion and skill of Filipino players.
“We’re here to see how we can explore a basketball development program for Saga Prefecture and the Philippines,” he said. “We know how great Filipino basketball players are, and we believe that many of them have the potential to succeed in Japan.”
The delegation also included general manager Coach Mizumachi, sponsor Mr. Mizugami, Otsuka Japan general manager Mr. Hiroo Goto, King of Car president Funaki Shib, manager Junpei Yamano, and Otsuka Philippines president Mr. Ken Saito.
Saito said the visit was more than a courtesy—it was a first step toward formalizing a collaboration that could benefit players from both sides.
“Several Filipinos are now playing in the Japanese League, and they have made a strong impression,” he said. “That’s why Saga is looking for a partnership with the PSC to strengthen the relationship between our countries. Hopefully, this will open a window of opportunities for even more Filipino players to ply their trade in Japan.”
The Saga Ballooners currently feature Allen Durham, a former PBA Best Import, as their top import. His success has further fueled the belief that Filipinos can thrive in Japan’s highly competitive league.
Looking ahead, officials outlined concrete plans to bring the collaboration to life.
“Part of the plan is an exchange program, where Filipino players can go to Saga to conduct basketball clinics and camps, and vice versa,” Saito revealed. “It’s not just about competition, but also about cultural exchange and learning from each other’s systems.”
For the PSC, the visit highlights the growing recognition of Filipino talent abroad. Commissioner Fritz Gaston, himself a former professional player, expressed optimism.
“Filipinos are known worldwide for their basketball passion. This kind of initiative shows that other countries are beginning to see the depth of our talent pool. It’s encouraging for our young athletes,” Gaston said.
Meanwhile, Commissioner Olivia “Bong” Coo noted the broader impact such partnerships can have.
“Opportunities like this can inspire the next generation,” she said. “It shows that basketball is not just a local dream—it can also open international doors for our players.”
The collaboration could extend beyond the court as well. Pocari Sweat officials announced that the PSC has been invited to visit Saga this October during the hosting of the Asian basketball championships, where discussions are expected to continue.
Saito concluded with confidence that the groundwork being laid in Manila will soon yield results.
“This is just the beginning,” he said. “We see the Philippines as a partner, not just in basketball but in building bridges between our communities. And basketball, being such a beloved sport in both our countries, is the perfect way to start.”
