By REYNALD MAGALLON
The Japan B.League has opened up the possibility of collaboration with the PBA, particularly playing exhibition games between players from the two leagues.
B.League executive officer for international business Nao Okamoto confirmed that the two leagues have been exploring the possibility during the B.League Final Week 2025 press conference at the Gateway Mall Activity Center, Thursday, May 22.
Though Okamoto did not divulge any more details about that possibility, he said that the Japanese league has been in constant communication with the PBA and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas on aspects where the leagues can work together to further grow the sport.
“Yes. We have been communicating with Mr. Willie Marcial. We have also been talking with the SBP,” said Okamoto.
Talks of potential partnership between the two leagues isn’t entirely new for the side of PBA with no less than chairman Ricky Vargas bringing up the possibility during the unveiling of the league 50th anniversary logo last February.
“We are going to have games with the B.League of Japan,” said Vargas
“May plano. May talks pa kami. Ayaw pa muna magsabi ng B.League. May plano na baka exhibition game ang tinitingnan namin,” furthered in a separate interview.
The planned exhibition games are being developed as part of the respective leagues’ anniversary celebrations with the PBA set to celebrate its golden anniversary next season and the Japan B.League set for its 10th anniversary.
In fact, in an effort to drum up the Japanese leagues milestone, the B.League is making efforts to grow its popularity not just in their country but also in the Philippines and neighboring nations.
B.League is conducting a four-day event at the Gateway Mall with some Filipino players suiting up for Japanese clubs leading the way in the programs.
Ray Parks Jr., Matthew Wright, Dwight Ramos and Kiefer Ravena are all back in the country and will participate in the clinics and 3×3 challenge organized by B.League, as well as the viewing party for its Finals series.
