The Japan B.LEAGUE's blooming partnership with the NBA could lead to bigger opportunities for Filipino imports who are looking to get a shot at the Association.
Filipino imports can possibly explore more opportunities with the Japan B.LEAGUE as they continue to flourish in their partnership with the NBA.
According to NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum, there have been talks to have more significant activities through the NBA and B.LEAGUE partnership, especially after seeing the talent in Japan during the recently-concluded Finals where the Utsunomiya Brex came out on top.
“It was just incredible, the growth of the B.LEAGUE,” said Tatum, noting that NBA representatives were also in Tokyo for the B.LEAGUE Finals.
“So yes, we’ve been talking about having more collaboration with the B.LEAGUE,” he added
Though falling short of promising any future games, Tatum said that there is potential for bigger things down the line in Japan.
With multiple Filipinos playing in the B.LEAGUE as imports, including NBA hopeful Kai Sotto, Tatum’s statements on the possible expansion of the partnership may prove pivotal as Sotto and other Pinoys hope to gain the attention of NBA scouts.
Among the potential developments later on according to Tatum could include games between the B.LEAGUE teams and the NBA G League.
Of note, players are able to get into NBA rosters through playing in the G League, whether through call ups or two-way contracts.
“With this strategic collaboration with the B.LEAGUE that we announced two months ago, I do think that there will be an opportunity for us to explore more elite development, partnering with the G League and the B.LEAGUE,” said Tatum.
“No [concrete plans for] games yet, but potentially down the road, for sure,” he added.
In the near future, the NBA is set to host a number of Finals watch parties in Japan where NBA players will also be looking to build on the community with visits to the country.