Alvark Tokyo Doubles Down: Backcourt Duo of Ando and Okura Re-Signed for 2025-26 Season
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Alvark Tokyo is betting on continuity in the backcourt, announcing on June 4th the re-signing of guards Shuto Ando and Souta Okura for the upcoming 2025-26 season. The move signals a commitment to stability and building on the chemistry developed during the past season. For fans of the B.League, this means seeing familiar faces leading the charge once again.
Ando, a 30-year-old shooting guard from Mie Prefecture, brings size and athleticism to the Alvark lineup. Standing at 6’3″ (190cm) and weighing 194 lbs (88kg), Ando’s journey through the B.League is a testament to his dedication. After graduating from Aoyama Gakuin University, he spent five seasons with the Nagoya Diamond Dolphins before joining Alvark Tokyo in the 2021-22 season. His ability to drive to the basket and finish with authority, sometimes even throwing down dunks in transition, provides a spark for the team. Ando’s scoring punch off the bench was a real asset last season,
noted one B.League analyst. he’s got the kind of explosiveness that can change the momentum of a game.
Okura, 25, is a versatile guard capable of playing both point and shooting guard positions. At 6’1″ (185cm) and 183 lbs (83kg), he brings a high basketball IQ and playmaking ability to the team. Before joining Alvark Tokyo this past season, Okura honed his skills with the Chiba Jets, initially as a specially designated player while still a student at Tokai University. His ability to make smart decisions with the ball and knock down clutch three-pointers makes him a valuable asset in the second unit. Think of him as a B.League version of a Patty Mills – a player who might not always start, but consistently delivers in crucial moments.
Both players expressed thier excitement about the upcoming season through the club. Ando stated, What will it take to get even higher? I wont to think carefully about that and prepare for this off-season.
Okura echoed this sentiment, saying, I think it will be a very important year for the team and myself.
Their comments suggest a strong desire to improve and contribute to the team’s success.
The re-signings of Ando and Okura are part of a larger roster update for Alvark Tokyo.The team is clearly focused on building a contender. However, the team faces challenges. Can Ando improve his consistency from beyond the arc? Can Okura take on a larger role as a primary ball-handler? These are the questions Alvark Tokyo will need to answer to compete for a championship.
Here’s a snapshot of the Alvark Tokyo 2024-25 season roster status (as of june 4th, 2025, 4:00 p.m. JST):
- [Continued] Tabes Sea, Zack Baransky, Ryan Rossiter, Okura Souta, Ando Shuto
- [Resignation] Okamoto Hiryu, Steve Zach, Leonardo Maindel
- [Unpublished] Sebastian Size, Kikuchi Shohei, Hiraiwa Gen, Fukuzawa Kohei, Kosakabe Yasuki
The “Unpublished” list leaves room for speculation. Will Alvark Tokyo look to add a veteran presence like a B.League version of a Udonis Haslem to mentor the younger players? Or will they focus on developing the talent they already have? Only time will tell.
AlvarkS Dynamic Duo: A Statistical Deep Dive
To truly understand the impact of Ando Shuto and okura Souta, let’s delve into some key statistical comparisons from their recent B.League seasons. While precise figures for the previous season are still emerging, we can analyze their contributions and performance trends.
the following table provides a snapshot of their performance, comparing them in key statistical categories. This data illustrates their role, strengths, and areas for potential growth, offering a deeper understanding of their contributions to Alvark Tokyo. Note that data is based on available data and might potentially be subject to change as final season stats are confirmed.
Key Statistics Comparison: Ando Shuto vs.Okura Souta
| Statistic | Ando Shuto | Okura Souta | Notes/Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Position | Shooting Guard | Point/Shooting Guard | Versatility of Okura is a key factor. |
| Height | 6’3″ (190cm) | 6’1″ (185cm) | Ando has the height advantage. |
| Weight | 194 lbs (88kg) | 183 lbs (83kg) | |
| Points Per Game (PPG) | ~8.5 (Projected) | ~6.0 (Projected) | Ando’s scoring ability often provides a crucial scoring boost. |
| Three-Point Percentage (%) | ~32% (Projected) | ~38% (Projected) | Okura’s higher percentage makes him a meaningful threat from deep. |
| Assists Per Game (APG) | ~1.0 (Projected) | ~2.5 (Projected) | Okura’s playmaking skills contribute to the overall game. |
| Rebounds Per Game (RPG) | ~2.5 (Projected) | ~1.5 (Projected) | Ando’s size naturally contributes more to rebounds. |
| Minutes Per Game (MPG) | ~20 (Projected) | ~18 (Projected) | Both often contribute off the bench. |
(Note: All statistics are project and might be subject to change as the season is finished).
As the table reveals, Ando’s scoring ability is a critical advantage. His ability to penetrate the defense and crash the boards highlights his value. Okura, meanwhile, often serves as a specialist, and is a long-range weapon, using his higher three-point percentage and assist numbers to create opportunities for teammates. Their contrasting skill sets offer Alvark Tokyo a balanced attack, making them arduous for opposing teams to defend.
FAQ: Alvark Tokyo and the Dynamic Duo
Here are some frequently asked questions about Alvark Tokyo, Shuto Ando, and souta Okura, designed to address common queries and provide further insights:
What is the B.League?
The B.League (B.LEAGUE) is the professional basketball league in Japan. It was formed in 2016 by merging the National Basketball league (NBL) and the bj league. The league consists of multiple divisions, with Alvark Tokyo being a prominent team in Division 1.
Who are Shuto Ando and Souta Okura?
Shuto Ando and Souta Okura are key players for Alvark Tokyo. Ando is a shooting guard known for his scoring and athleticism. Okura is a versatile guard capable of playing both point and shooting guard,known for his three-point shooting and playmaking abilities. Both were re-signed for the 2025-26 season.
What is Alvark Tokyo’s strategy with these re-signings?
By re-signing Ando and Okura, Alvark Tokyo is prioritizing continuity, stability, and player familiarity. Their focus is on building on the synergy the players have developed, aiming to create a competitive team. This approach suggests a desire to maintain a consistent roster core while strategically adding new talent to enhance their chances of winning.
How do Ando and Okura complement each other on the court?
Ando’s size and scoring ability create the option for a bigger guard while Okura’s playmaking and outside shooting provide a balanced attack. Their contrasting styles make them difficult to defend, and allows the team to adapt their strategies more effectively.
What are the key areas for improvement for Ando and Okura?
For Ando, improving consistency from beyond the arc is a key. For Okura, expanding his role as a primary ball-handler could further unlock his playmaking abilities. Both players consistently work on their overall game,adding new aspects to the team dynamic.
What is the significance of the “Unpublished” list of players?
The “unpublished” list suggests Alvark Tokyo may be considering roster adjustments. They could be looking to sign veteran players to mentor younger players or develop talent already on the team. This list highlights the ongoing evolution of the team’s roster as they prepare to compete in the B.League.
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