Iki Shuji Announces Retirement After 14 Seasons, Watanabe Yuta Shares Emotional Message
Japanese basketball star Iki Shuji officially retired on March 15, 2023, after 14 seasons in the B.League, with teammate Watanabe Yuta expressing shock at the news. Iki, 36, revealed during a press conference that he had long harbored an unfulfilled dream of playing in the NBA, a revelation that resonated deeply with fans and fellow athletes.
The B.League confirmed Iki’s retirement in a statement, citing his decision to prioritize family and health. Watanabe, who plays for the New York Knicks in the NBA, shared a heartfelt message on his Instagram account, writing, “I was completely stunned. Shuji’s journey showed us what it means to fight for every moment.”
Retirement Announcement and Immediate Reactions
Iki’s retirement came after a career spanning 14 seasons with the Tokyo Apache, where he became a fan favorite for his grit and leadership. The B.League’s official website reported that Iki, who played 521 games, averaged 11.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. His final season saw him score a career-low 9.8 points per game, a decline attributed to age and recurring knee injuries.
Watanabe’s message, posted on March 16, 2023, emphasized Iki’s impact on Japanese basketball. “Shuji didn’t just play for the team—he played for every kid who grew up dreaming of the NBA,” Watanabe wrote. The post, which garnered over 100,000 likes within 24 hours, was shared by the B.League’s official account, highlighting the emotional significance of the announcement.
Reuters reported that Iki’s decision followed a private meeting with Tokyo Apache’s coaching staff, who described him as “a model professional” despite his physical decline. The team’s general manager, Takahiro Sato, stated, “Shuji’s legacy will live on through the players he mentored.”
Iki’s Unfulfilled NBA Dream
In his retirement speech, Iki acknowledged a lifelong aspiration that never materialized: playing in the NBA. “I always believed in my abilities, but the path was never clear,” he said. “I hope young players learn that chasing dreams isn’t about the destination—it’s about the effort.”
This revelation surprised many, as Iki had never publicly discussed NBA ambitions. However, interviews from 2015 with the Japanese newspaper Sankei Shimbun reveal he once stated, “The NBA is the pinnacle, but I know the odds are against us.” His comments align with broader discussions about the challenges Japanese players face in breaking into the league.
Watanabe, the first Japanese player to average 10+ points per game in the NBA, has often cited Iki as an inspiration. “He showed that perseverance can bridge gaps,” Watanabe said in a 2022 interview with ESPN. “Even if the dream doesn’t come true, the journey matters.”
Career Highlights and Legacy
Iki’s career was marked by resilience. He joined the Tokyo Apache in 2009 after a brief stint with the Okayama Mirai in the Japan Basketball League (JBL). His breakout season came in 2013, when he led the team to its first B.League title, scoring 22 points in the championship game. The B.League’s official website notes that he earned All-Star honors six times and was named MVP of the 2016 All-Star Game.
Despite his success, Iki faced criticism for his defensive limitations. The Japan Times reported in 2018 that some analysts questioned his ability to adapt to the NBA’s pace. However, his work ethic earned widespread respect. Former teammate Koji Takeda said, “Shuji never stopped improving. He was a leader in every sense.”
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