Introduction to the NBA in Japan
The National Basketball Association (NBA) is the world’s premier professional basketball league. It has become one of the most popular sports leagues in the world, and it has been the centerpiece of many international basketball events. One of the countries that has embraced the game of basketball is Japan. The NBA has been playing regular-season games in Japan since 1990, and continues to return every few years.
History of the NBA in Japan
The NBA first came to Japan in 1990, when the Phoenix Suns played two regular-season games against the Utah Jazz at Tokyo’s Nippon Budokan. This was the first time an American professional sports league had held games outside of North America. The games were a huge success, and the NBA was soon back in Japan.
From 1990 to 2006, the NBA played a total of 23 regular-season games in Japan. All the games were played in Tokyo, with the Utah Jazz being the most frequent visitor. During this period, the NBA also made several tours of Japan with teams such as the Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers, and Detroit Pistons.
Recent NBA Games in Japan
In recent years, the NBA has continued to bring its games to Japan. In 2017, the Houston Rockets and Toronto Raptors played two regular-season games in Tokyo. Then, in 2019, the NBA returned to Japan with the first-ever NBA Japan Games. The games featured the Rockets and the Raptors, who faced off in two games at the Saitama Super Arena. The two teams also participated in a number of events, including fan interactions, basketball clinics, and more.
Upcoming NBA Games in Japan
The NBA is set to return to Japan in 2021, with two regular-season games between the Houston Rockets and Toronto Raptors. The games will take place at the Saitama Super Arena on October 8th and 10th.
Teams Playing in Japan
The two teams that will be playing in Japan in 2021 are the Houston Rockets and Toronto Raptors. The Rockets are one of the most successful teams in the NBA, having won two championships and making the playoffs in each of the last ten seasons. The Raptors are the defending NBA champions, having won the title in 2019.
Players to Watch in Japan
The Rockets and Raptors will be bringing some of the best players in the league to Japan. The Rockets will be led by their star guard, James Harden, while the Raptors feature Kawhi Leonard, the two-time NBA Finals MVP. Both teams will also feature a number of exciting young players, including the Rockets’ Clint Capela and the Raptors’ Pascal Siakam.
Tickets for the NBA Japan Games
Tickets for the 2021 NBA Japan Games are now available. Prices start at ¥7,800 (about $75 USD) and range up to ¥31,500 (about $300 USD). The tickets can be purchased online or at the Saitama Super Arena box office.
Events Surrounding the NBA Japan Games
In addition to the two regular-season games, the NBA is planning a number of events around the Japan Games. These include:
NBA Fan Fest
The NBA Fan Fest will be a two-day event held at the Shinjuku Garden Tower. The event will feature interactive basketball activities, giveaways, and meet-and-greets with NBA players and legends.
NBA Cares Clinics
The NBA Cares Clinics will be held in three cities around Japan. At the clinics, NBA players and legends will lead basketball clinics for young players and fans.
NBA House
The NBA House will be a two-day event held at the Tokyo International Forum. The event will feature interactive basketball activities, live music, and meet-and-greets with NBA players and legends.
Conclusion
The NBA has been playing games in Japan since 1990, and continues to bring its regular-season games to the country every few years. In 2021, the NBA will be returning to Japan with the Rockets and Raptors playing two regular-season games at the Saitama Super Arena. In addition to the games, the NBA will be hosting a number of events, including the NBA Fan Fest, NBA Cares Clinics, and NBA House. So, if you’re a basketball fan in Japan, make sure to get your tickets and join in the fun!