Fans can now support Gunma Crane Thunders and their local region through a participatory game running from October 4, 2026, to February 14, 2027.
The Basketball Infrastructure League, known as the BI League 2026-27, combines the defensive performance of B.League clubs with community infrastructure point-scoring, according to an announcement from the Gunma Crane Thunders.
The competition runs across two distinct divisions during the regular season. The basketball division ranks clubs based on fewest points allowed, while the infrastructure division awards points to participants who visit regional spots and document community assets.
Participants use the Horai area-management app to check mapped basketball hoops, post newly discovered hoops and fire-water signs, and visit recommended regional locations. Those efforts translate directly into standings points for their chosen club.
The overall champion club receives a prize of 3,000,000 yen, with second place earning 1,500,000 yen and third place taking 500,000 yen. Those cash awards depend on a combined score that merges the club’s defensive ranking on the court with fan-generated infrastructure points.
The league also features a youth support category where clubs compete for a total prize pool of 5,000,000 yen. That money serves as activity funding for club youth programs, determined by how many supporters visit designated local spots.
Fans who capture the most posting points in the Basic competition win an autographed basketball from a player on their supported club. Top visitors in the youth support category receive merchandise signed by the team captain.
Supporters join the event by downloading the Horai app available for iPhone users and Android users. After creating an account and selecting their favorite club, participants complete a disaster prevention quiz before moving on to field checks and spot visits.
The infrastructure competition closes on February 14, 2027. Further details and updates are available on the BI League official website.
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