The Okinawa Golden Kings are gearing up for two monumental basketball events, facing their rivals, the Shimane Susanoo Magic, on March 12, 2025, at the Okinawa City Gymnasium, and competing for the 100th Emperor's Cup on March 15, 2025.
This upcoming match is pivotal for both teams, especially for the Kings, who aim to build momentum leading up to the Emperor's Cup final. The Kings have been on fire, boasting impressive statistics with an average of 83.8 points per game, ranking third in the league, and claiming the top spot with 43.6 rebounds per game.
The Shimane Susanoo Magic, naturally, will not go down easy. Currently sitting as the second seed in the Western District, they have shown proficiency this season under the expert guidance of head coach Paul Henare. Key players such as #3 Akihiro Ando, who averages 15.8 points and 3.9 assists, and #14 James Michael McAdoo, averaging 13 points and 9.4 rebounds, form the core of their powerful strategy.
The Kings will also rely heavily on their own stars, including #15 Keita Matsuwaki, who has averaged 19.3 points over the last three games, demonstrating exceptional form with a 54% success rate from three-point range. #3 Tatsuhiro Ito also stands out, known for his swiftness and crafty passing, contributing significantly to the offense and providing relentless defensive pressure.
Kings and fans alike know they must curtail Shimane’s fast-break opportunities and dominate the rebounding battle to secure their victory. Their matchup on March 12 promises to showcase top-tier basketball as they compete at the Okinawa City Gymnasium, with tip-off set for 19:35.
This clash is not only about pride but dreams. The victory on March 12 sets the stage for the grants of the prestigious Emperor's Cup, where the Kings will face champions Alvark Tokyo. Historically, no team from Okinawa Prefecture has ever clinched the Emperor's Cup, making this year’s final all the more significant. Fans recall the heartbreak of last year when the Kings reached the finals only to finish as runners-up. Will this be the year they change the course of history?
To unite the community, AEON MALL Okinawa Rycom, the official partner of the Kings, is planning to hold public viewings of the games leading up to the Emperor's Cup. A viewing event for the final will occur on March 15 at the large vision screen located on the food court’s fourth floor, starting at 15:00. This inclusive event aims to rally local supporters, urging them to cheer on the Kings as they strive to make history.
Upcoming public viewing dates include their match against Shimane on March 12, followed by games against the Kyoto Hannaryz on March 19, and Seahorses Mikawa on March 22 and 23.
More than just games, these events encapsulate the spirit of victory and community solidarity. To all basketball fans, the Kings invite you to bring your excitement and support to the gym on March 12 and the public viewing on March 15. Together, let’s cheer our team to potential glory!