The Japanese men's basketball team is gearing up for the upcoming FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers, and they've got some exciting changes on the horizon. On November 13th, during their open training camp held at the Ajinomoto National Training Center, head coach Tom Horvath made headlines by naming 34-year-old Makoto Hiejima as the team's captain, marking the beginning of their preparations for the Los Angeles Olympics.
Hiejima, who has been part of the national team for 13 years, expressed surprise at his new role, recalling how coach Horvath immediately called him "captain" upon their first meeting. "At first, I thought it was a joke, but then he kept calling me 'captain' the next day too!" Hiejima shared with laughter, still coming to terms with his newfound leadership. He emphasized his commitment to compete at his highest level, especially as he views this phase of his national team career as potentially his last, aiming to make this experience one he will cherish.
Japan's upcoming matches include two decisive qualifiers against Mongolia, ranked 108th, on November 21st, and against Guam, ranked 80th, on November 24th. These matches are pivotal as the team aims to secure tickets to the Asia Cup 2025.
During the camp, Horvath noted the physical state of the players, mentioning fatigue and minor injuries affecting many. "Given the B.League season is currently underway, we have many young players participating, but I am confident about their abilities to rise to the occasion," he commented. The coach reflected on the need for fresh talent as key players from recent competitions, like Yuki Kawamura and Teibu Kai, are absent from this training camp.
Going forward, Horvath has brought together several young and enthusiastic players such as Takase, Aoki, and Hida from the B League to test their skills within the national setup. "It’s been about a year since we last integrated new players. If they can master our system, they could become significant contributors to our causes," Horvath noted, highlighting the diversity of playing styles among the new recruits.
Meanwhile, Horvath also shared his feelings on the recent success of his coaching career, as well as his intentions to cultivate the team's strong performance leading up to the Olympics. Previous captain Yuki Togashi, who has held the captaincy before Hiejima, recognized his successor's new role. "He's quite the character; I mean, I’m somewhat worried but hopeful. We'll need him to lead confidently," Togashi humorously remarked about Hiejima’s calm demeanor.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties surrounding team dynamics and performance as they prepare for international competition, Hiejima remains focused. His message to fans is clear: "I want to play without regrets and bounce back from any disappointments we faced at the Paris Olympics." With such determination flowing through the squad, fans eagerly await the upcoming matches of the rejuvenated team under Hiejima's leadership.
Both experienced and novice players alike will need to channel their strengths as they navigate these qualifiers, but there’s already buzz surrounding this fresh leadership approach. With Horvath committed to fostering young talent and Hiejima set to motivate his teammates, the men's national basketball team is poised for exciting outcomes as they look to make their mark on the international stage.
