TOKYO (Japan) - Mai Yamamoto and Kokoro Tanaka are two of the headline ballers who have been named to Japan's roster for the upcoming FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026.
The Asian side are looking to make a splash in the competition by reaching the Quarter-Finals for the first time in 47 years.
Meanwhile there is added significance for Japan since they have recently been announced as the host nation for the 2030 edition. of the famous competition.
It looks as if Mai Yamamoto will be the player that will lead their campaign, with the guard having been the standout performer at the Qualifying Tournament back in March.
Her multi-faceted scoring skills will be essential and she will also be guaranteed to get fans off their seats with her exciting style.
Also looking to pack the highlights reel, Kokoro Tanaka looks destined to be one of the rising stars to watch. She was outstanding last year at the FIBA Women's Asia Cup and also influential in the Qualifying Tournament.
She also showed her skills in recent preparation games, her capacity to entertain will be a big feature for Japan and she is set to be a standout player for her country for many years to come.
The roster shows how Japan have a nice mix of veteran know-how and dynamic younger players - a fusion that should serve them well in the German capital.
There is incredible experience that includes the quartet of Maki Takada, Rui Machida, Yuki Miyazawa and Ramu Tokashiki.
There is also another young gun in addition to Tanaka, with teenager Otoha Goto given an opportunity, having caught the eye at the U17 and U19 Worlds.
Japan will face Mali, Germany and Spain in the Group phase of the competition.
FIBA