Tokyo was abuzz on December 15 as it hosted the exciting conclusion of the Basketball Women's National Championships, known as the Empress's Cup. The Fujitsu Redwave clashed with the Aisin Wings at the Yoyogi National Gymnasium, showcasing gripping athleticism and skill. The game reached its climax with the Redwave triumphing over Aisin by 65 to 55, marking their first championship title since 2007.
The Empress's Cup this year gathered 61 teams overall, composed of 14 teams from the Women’s Basketball League and 47 teams representing various prefectures. The final between the Redwave and Wings was particularly noteworthy as these squads had faced each other four times throughout the current league season, with Fujitsu boasting victories each time. The Redwave dominated the league, earning them the top seed going to the finals.
Aisin's star player, Ramu Tokashiki, stepped up dramatically, scoring seven out of eight shots during the first half, bringing her team to an early lead of 38-29. Young talent Sakura Noguchi contributed significantly as well, hitting two three-pointers, totaling eight points. The Wings appeared strong entering halftime, bolstered by their veteran and rookie combination. Yet, the tables turned after halftime.
Entering the third quarter, Aisin began to falter as fouls mounted, allowing Fujitsu to capitalize on free throws. Joshua Anhfon Novontemitope proved pivotal, collecting rebounds and pulling the Redwave within two points at 43-45 as the quarter wrapped with Aisin leading by just four points, 47-43.
With the final quarter underway, tensions were high as both teams exchanged rapid baskets. A foul by Aisin put Fujitsu at the line, narrowing the score to 52-53. When Moka Eraw's three-pointer landed, the Redwave swiftly took the lead at 57-53. A final push featuring Sonia Uchi’s three-pointer helped solidify Fujitsu's remarkable comeback, sealing the victory and their first championship title after 17 years.
Meanwhile, another thrilling event was occurring simultaneously, as the 92nd All-Japan Speed Skipping Championships took place at YS Arena Hachinohe from December 13 to 15. The standout athlete was Miho Takagi, who not only competed but excelled across three distances—1500m, 500m, and 1000m—earning victory by claiming all of them and shattering the rink record for the 1000m with a time of 1:14.17. For her stunning performances, she was recognized as the tournament's Most Valuable Player.
Takagi's fellow teammate, Momoka Horikawa, also made headlines by clinching the title for both the 3000m and 5000m distances, making her tournament participation equally fruitful. Rising star Rina Kosaka took home the victory for the mass start event, showcasing the depth of talent present during the competition.
On the men's side, Seitaro Ichinose also had an impressive showing, winning both the 1500m and 5000m events. Another Olympian, Tatsuya Shinbama, claimed victories over the 500m and 1000m events. Ichinose set the men's tournament record for the 5000m at 6:21.71, earning the title of Outstanding Male Athlete.
Finally, Shogi enthusiasts tuned in as the 17th annual Hifumi Cup Women's Amateur Championship unfolded on December 15. This popular event, supported by the Japan Women's Professional Shogi Association and backed by Tokyo Shimbun, was held at the investment management company, Leos Capital Works. A total of ten competitors, who rose through local and online qualifications, faced off.
Chika Oshiro, representing the Kanto-Koshin region, proved unstoppable, achieving her second overall title after previously topping the tournament three years before. Her victory adds to her prowess and growing recognition within Japan's Shogi circles. This time, she expressed contentment, saying she felt victorious, especially with her rival, Saki Izawa, who had defeated her just last November during the Women's Amateur Master Championship finals.
The recent surge of women's sports events this December highlights Japan's growing acknowledgment and support of female athletes across various domains. From basketball to speed-skate racing and Shogi, it is clear the spotlight on women's sports is steadily brightening, reflecting both exceptional athletic talent and inspiring narratives of achievement.
