Dwight Ramos credited former NBA big man Jahlil Okafor with improving Levanga Hokkaido's play in the 2025-26 Japan B.League season.
The Levanga Hokkaido has a huge resurgence in the 2025-26 Japan B.League season.
Currently fourth in the standings with a 22-6 record, Dwight Ramos believes their run has been due to the arrival of former NBA big man Jahlil Okafor.
Speaking in an interview aired on One News’ Play by Play, Ramos shared his thoughts on Okafor, the former No. 3 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers, describing him as a presence that goes beyond the box score.
“He’s been great. He’s a great guy on and off the court,” Ramos said. “The way he plays is just so smart.”
What makes Okafor a great teammate?
Ramos pointed out that while players of Okafor’s pedigree are often expected to dominate purely as scorers, the big man has taken a different approach.
“A lot of times, players of his caliber just want to score, but he’s a complete team player,” Ramos explained. “He never has a bad attitude, and it’s just a joy to have him as a teammate.”
On the court, Okafor’s presence has simplified the game for his teammates. With defenses naturally collapsing on him in the post, Ramos noted that lanes open up and shots become easier to find.
“A lot of people are focused on him in the post, and that creates a lot of lanes and open shots,” Ramos said. “It’s a lot easier playing with him. He doesn’t force his own shots—if he’s getting double-teamed, he’ll swing the ball out.”
What has Dwight learned from Jahlil?
Beyond tactics and spacing, Ramos also highlighted what he has learned from Okafor on an individual level, particularly his composure.
“I just like his calm demeanor,” Ramos said. “No matter what’s happening on the court, he’s got the same vibe. Nothing really rattles him.”
So far, Okafor has backed up that impact with solid numbers, averaging 15.2 points, 8 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game.
Now in his fourth year in Japan, Ramos could finally have a shot at bagging the B.League crown alongside Okafor.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.