TOKYO - Japan have come a long way since November 2014 when they were handed a suspension by FIBA. Now, the Akatsuki Five revamped their national basketball program and have also inaugurated a new, more vibrant pro league that should serve as a bigger draw for fans and a more solid well of talent for the national team.

With a three-pronged mission (strengthening players and clubs, entertaining fans and creating a "dream" arena), the B.League seems to have taken Japan by storm, as proven by more heightened interest and much wider exposure of the sport compared to years past. It clearly seems like Japan have taken FIBA’s suggestions to heart when it comes to unifying their club system, which used to have two competing top-level leagues (the NBL and the BJ-League), and they are now reaping wonderful results.

2016 has actually been a golden year for Japanese basketball, what with their inclusion in the FIBA OQT and the B.League really taking off more strongly than expected. As proof of this renewed interest in basketball, the first ever B.League All-Star Weekend promises to be an explosive event. Day One will feature an "East Asia Club Championship" match between the Toshiba Brave Thunders and the Anyang KGC of the Korean Basketball League, while Day Two will have the requisite and much awaited All-Star Game 2017.

The B.League's first ever Director, Masaaki Okawa, is understandably pleased, and he has high hopes that this upward trend in exposure, entertainment, and competitiveness will continue and eventually help boost the national team’s quality even more.

Okawa discussed his thoughts on the B.League with FIBA.com.

How have the players and fans responded to the new B.League in Japan?
With the unification of two leagues (NBL and BJ-League)to become the B.League, the exposure of and attention to basketball have rapidly grown. Working conditions have also improved for the players, and their mind and mentality have changed significantly. They are npw playing with a genuine professional mindset and are trying to bring in as many fans as possible to the game. It seems that they are playing hard since this may be the last chance for professional basketball to take a strong hold in Japan.

​Because of the establishment of the B.League and having the opening game broadcast on television, we have seen increased exposure in media including internet broadcasting. The hardcore basketball fans have high expectations and hopes for basketball to become a major sport in the country.

What opportunities does having the B.League present to Japanese basketball?
We must provide aggressive and competitive games, enhance the level of basketball and create new star players who can compete at the world level. By doing so, I believe that there would be more young players that would dream of playing in the B.League.

How will the B.League help the Japanese national team program develop?
First, we would support the development of our national team by organizing monthly national camps during our season. Secondly, we would financially support the JBA by donating 3% of ticket sales for the development of national team.​

What can fans look forward to in the first B.League All-Star Weekend?
Fans should expect amazing plays from the national team caliber players and players who were selected by fan balloting. Also, the fans should look forward to numerous entertaining activities and performances.

Overall, does the B.League represent a step forward for Japanese basketball?
The establishment of the "REAL" men's top league has resulted in the number of spectators and ticket sales increasing. Add to it the success of our women’s national team in Rio, and I think this symbolizes a great development of both men’s and women’s basketball in Japan.

FIBA