The Announcement: A New Chapter for Two Basketball Icons

The engagement was first shared on social media by Tsukasa Tsuda, a 24-year-old guard currently playing for the Long Island Nets of the NBA G League. In a heartfelt post, Tsuda expressed gratitude for the support of their families, teammates, and fans, while emphasizing their shared commitment to both basketball and their personal journey together.

Aimi Kimura, a 23-year-old forward with the Grand Rapids Gold, matched Tsuda’s announcement with her own message, highlighting how their partnership has strengthened off the court while continuing to push each other professionally.

Careers on the Rise

Tsuda and Kimura’s professional trajectories have been nothing short of remarkable. Tsuda, a graduate of Western Kentucky University, was selected in the second round (47th overall) of the 2022 WNBA Draft by the Connecticut Sun before transitioning to the NBA G League, where he has become a standout performer. In the 2025-26 season, Tsuda has averaged 14.3 points, 4.8 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game, earning him a spot on the G League’s All-Rookie Team last season.

From Instagram — related to Rise Tsuda and Kimura, Western Kentucky University

Kimura, who played college basketball at University of Massachusetts, was drafted in the third round (34th overall) of the 2023 WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings. After a brief stint in the WNBA, she joined the NBA G League in 2024, where her versatility as a forward has made her a valuable asset. This season, she leads the Gold in rebounding (8.7 RPG) and has been a key contributor in the paint.

Impact on Japanese Basketball

Their engagement comes at a pivotal time for Japanese basketball. Both athletes have been instrumental in the growth of the sport in Japan, inspiring a new generation of players and fans. Tsuda and Kimura’s success in North America has helped elevate the profile of Japanese basketball internationally, particularly among younger audiences who see their achievements as proof that hard work and dedication can lead to professional opportunities abroad.

Impact on Japanese Basketball
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“This is a historic moment for Japanese basketball,” said Japan Basketball Association (JBA) spokesperson. “Tsukasa and Aimi represent the future of our sport—not just as athletes, but as role models who show that excellence can be achieved both on and off the court.”

What Comes Next?

While the couple has not announced a wedding date, their engagement is expected to be a significant focus in the coming months. For now, both athletes remain committed to their basketball careers. Tsuda and Kimura are both expected to continue their G League tenures, with opportunities to earn call-ups to their respective WNBA teams—the Connecticut Sun and Dallas Wings—as the season progresses.

Their schedules will remain demanding, but their support for one another is evident. “We’ve always been each other’s biggest fans,” Kimura said in a recent interview. “Now, we’ll be each other’s biggest supporters in every way.”

Fan Reaction and Global Appeal

The announcement has sparked widespread excitement among basketball fans in Japan and abroad. Social media platforms have been flooded with congratulatory messages, with fans praising the couple for their talent, humility, and the way they represent Japanese culture on the global stage.

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In Japan, where sports couples are relatively rare in professional athletics, Tsuda and Kimura’s engagement has been met with particular enthusiasm. Local media outlets have highlighted their story as a symbol of the changing dynamics in Japanese sports, where athletes are increasingly pursuing international careers while maintaining strong ties to their home country.

Key Takeaways

  • Historic First: Tsuda and Kimura are the first active NBA G League players from Japan to announce an engagement, setting a new precedent for professional athletes in the country.
  • Inspiration for Youth: Their success and personal milestone serve as motivation for young athletes in Japan who aspire to play professionally abroad.
  • Global Influence: The couple’s union highlights the growing presence of Japanese players in North American basketball, particularly in the NBA G League and WNBA.
  • Balancing Act: Both athletes will need to navigate their professional commitments alongside their personal lives as they prepare for marriage.
  • Cultural Bridge: Their relationship embodies the blend of Japanese tradition and global sports culture, resonating with fans worldwide.

How to Follow Their Journey

For updates on Tsuda and Kimura’s careers, fans can follow their respective teams:

Key Takeaways
Japanese NBA players married couple photo

Official announcements regarding their wedding plans will likely be shared through their personal social media accounts.

What’s Next in Their Careers?

The NBA G League season is set to conclude in late June, with both Tsuda and Kimura poised to make a strong case for WNBA call-ups. If selected, they could contribute to playoff pushes for their respective teams. Meanwhile, Japan’s national team will be preparing for the 2026 FIBA Asia Cup, where Tsuda and Kimura could both feature, adding another layer to their dual commitments.

As for their personal lives, the couple has hinted at a more low-key celebration, focusing on family and close friends rather than a large public event. Fans are already speculating about potential future collaborations, including appearances at Japanese basketball events or even a joint social media account to share their journey.