Tokyo, Japan – March 6, 2026 – The Japan Basketball Association (JBA) today unveiled the roster for Team TOKYO 2026, a specialized 3×3 men’s team formed to compete on the FIBA 3×3 circuit and ultimately pursue a berth in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The six players were selected following a rigorous selection camp held February 24-26.
The team will be comprised of players currently competing in the B.League, dedicating themselves to 3×3 competition during the off-season. Team TOKYO 2026 is slated to participate in the FIBA 3×3 Men’s Pro Circuit, alongside Japan’s 3×3 national team and under-23/under-21 squads, as they prepare for international competition. The 3×3 format utilizes teams of four players, a key difference from the traditional five-a-side game.
The JBA anticipates the team will officially begin activities in June, with a detailed schedule to be announced at a later date. This initiative underscores Japan’s growing commitment to 3×3 basketball, a relatively novel Olympic sport that debuted at the Tokyo 2020 Games.
Here’s a look at the players selected for Team TOKYO 2026, along with their comments as released by the JBA:
Kennedy Thomas (201cm/38 years old, Seahorses Mikawa): “Playing for the Japan national team is still something special. The moment I place on that jersey is always emotional, no matter how many times I’ve experienced it. I carry a sense of pride, responsibility, and gratitude onto the court. All of that motivates me. My commitment to 3×3 is even stronger, as is my determination to fight as a member of the national team.”
Nakamura Tachi (190cm/28 years old, Shimane Susanoo Magic): “Whether or not I participate in the Olympics will significantly impact my career. I’m grateful for this opportunity and will work hard with everyone to achieve our goal of reaching the Olympics.”
Ehara Shintaro (192cm/24 years old, Shiga Lakes): “3×3 isn’t as popular as 5-on-5 yet, but it’s a fun sport to play and watch. I aim for to increase its popularity in Japan and grow the number of players. If People can compete in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, it will boost its popularity and attract more players, so I’m going to give it my all.”
Ogawa Mahito (176cm/24 years old, Kyoto Hannaryz): “One of the appealing aspects of 3×3 is that there’s no head coach during the game. Players have to suppose for themselves and communicate with each other, which I enjoy. It’s key to talk constantly and build a family-like atmosphere, and I want to work towards that over time.”
Holtz Jake Yuki (194cm/24 years old, Nagoya Diamond Dolphins): “My goal is to compete in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics and fight on the world stage. I will continue to work hard to achieve that goal and hopefully reach it.”
Hasegawa Higen (202cm/20 years old, Shiga Lakes): “I think this is a tournament I need to participate in to reach a higher level. I’m taking this opportunity as a positive. I’ve always taken on challenges rather than staying in comfortable situations, so I’m excited rather than anxious.”
The team will be led by Hirota Michihiro (JBA), with Kazuya Nakaso serving as head coach. Suzuki Keita (Outnumber Co., Ltd.) will act as coach, whereas Okumoto Kaori (JBA) will be the athletic trainer, and Kotaki Kai Rafael (JBA) will serve as team manager.
The formation of Team TOKYO 2026 represents a strategic investment in the future of 3×3 basketball in Japan. The JBA is clearly aiming to capitalize on the momentum gained from 3×3’s Olympic debut and build a competitive program capable of challenging for a medal in Los Angeles. The selection of players currently active in the B.League allows for a streamlined integration into the 3×3 format, leveraging existing skills and athleticism.
3×3 basketball, known for its swift-paced action and dynamic play, has quickly gained popularity worldwide. Its shorter game duration and smaller court size make it an accessible and exciting alternative to traditional basketball. The JBA’s commitment to developing a dedicated 3×3 program signals a broader effort to expand the sport’s reach within Japan and cultivate a new generation of players.
The B.League also recently held tryouts, with the “B.LEAGUE TRYOUT 2025” aiming to discover young talent and provide opportunities for players to challenge themselves on a professional level. These tryouts, held on June 23, 2025, were open to male athletes aged 26 and under as of March 31, 2026, and attracted significant interest from aspiring basketball players.
As Team TOKYO 2026 prepares for its debut, all eyes will be on this new squad as they embark on their journey towards the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The team’s success will not only depend on individual talent but also on their ability to forge a strong team dynamic and adapt to the unique challenges of the 3×3 format.
The next confirmed checkpoint for Team TOKYO 2026 is their official start of activities in June. Further details regarding their schedule and participation in the FIBA 3×3 Men’s Pro Circuit will be announced by the JBA in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of Team TOKYO 2026 and the exciting world of 3×3 basketball.
What are your thoughts on Team TOKYO 2026’s roster? Share your predictions and excitement in the comments below!
