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Tag: Japan B.League

  • Fresh start awaits Quentin Millora-Brown as Filipino big man joins Nagoya Diamond Dolphins 

    Fresh start awaits Quentin Millora-Brown as Filipino big man joins Nagoya Diamond Dolphins 

    For Quentin Millora-Brown, the 2026-27 B.League season represents more than just another stop in Japan—it is a chance to reset his career.

     

    After an injury-marred campaign with the Chiba Jets limited his impact, the Filipino-American center has found a new home with the Nagoya Diamond Dolphins, who officially announced his signing on Friday as they continue to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season.


    Millora-Brown is embracing the fresh opportunity and is eager to help Nagoya build on the success it achieved a year ago.

     

    “I’m incredibly excited to join the Dolphins and become part of this organization. With the start of the new B.LEAGUE PREMIER era, I’m looking forward to fighting alongside my teammates and all of you to protect the legacy this club has built and add to it,” Millora-Brown said.

     

    The move comes after a frustrating stretch with Chiba, where injuries prevented the 6-foot-10 big man from carving out a consistent role. He suited up in just 19 games during the previous campaign, averaging 3.8 points and 2.9 rebounds in 13.9 minutes per contest.

     

    Across his first season with the Jets, Millora-Brown produced averages of 4.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.2 assists before sciatica sidelined him for the latter part of the campaign. 

     

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    His absence came as Chiba finished with a strong 42-18 regular-season record before its playoff run ended in the B.League semifinals against Nagasaki Velca.

     

    Despite the limited production, Millora-Brown believes his value extends beyond statistics.

     

    “I play hard every time I step on the court. My goal is to become the kind of player that opponents hate to play against, but teammates love to play with. Defense and setting screens are the two things I take the most pride in,” he said. 

     

    Those traits could prove valuable for a Nagoya squad looking to take the next step after posting a 41-19 record last season. 

     

    The Diamond Dolphins also reached the B.League semifinals but were eliminated by the Ryukyu Golden Kings, prompting the club to reinforce its frontcourt ahead of the league’s new campaign.

     

    Millora-Brown’s transfer also continues a busy offseason for Filipino talent in Japan. AJ Edu stayed with the Gunma Crane Thunders, while Jamie Malonzo and Matthew Wright signed with Earthfriends Tokyo Z and the Saitama Broncos, respectively. Mike Phillips also secured a move to the Kyoto Hannaryz, further expanding the Filipino presence across Japanese professional basketball.

     

    Nagoya’s expectations are equally high entering the inaugural B.LEAGUE PREMIER season. The club recently appointed veteran international coach Roy Rana as its new head coach, signaling its intent to compete for championships in the league’s new era. 

     

    Millora-Brown’s arrival gives Rana another defensive-minded interior presence as the Dolphins look to improve on last season’s Final Four finish.

     

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  • Japan B.League Manila Games: Okamoto highlights PBA respect, Filipino basketball culture

    Japan B.League Manila Games: Okamoto highlights PBA respect, Filipino basketball culture

    The Japan B.League is set to make history with the B.League Manila Games 2026, a two-game preseason exhibition that will mark the first time the Japanese professional basketball league stages official games outside Japan. Scheduled for September 9 and 10 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, the landmark event is expected to further strengthen the growing basketball ties between Japan and the Philippines.


    Headlining the showcase are Levanga Hokkaido and the Gunma Crane Thunders, with Filipino standouts Dwight Ramos and AJ Edu set to represent their respective B.League clubs. Ramos, one of the league’s most recognizable international stars, will suit up for Levanga Hokkaido, while Edu will take the floor for Gunma, giving Filipino fans a rare opportunity to watch two members of the Gilas Pilipinas pool compete on home soil in Japanese club colors.


    More than just an exhibition series, the B.League Manila Games symbolize the league’s continued international expansion and its commitment to engaging one of the world’s most passionate basketball fanbases. Since its establishment in 2016, the B.League has experienced rapid growth, attracting top talent from across Asia and beyond while steadily increasing its global footprint.

     

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    Speaking during a media interaction, B.League Executive Officer Nao Okamoto emphasized the importance of the support extended by both the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) in making the historic event possible.

     

    “We have full respect towards the PBA as the longest-standing basketball league in Asia,” Okamoto said. “We really respect the PBA—its history, its mindset, and the country’s love for basketball. We are still a young league, only 10 years old, and we have so many things to learn from them.”


    Okamoto noted that the Philippines’ deeply rooted basketball culture made collaboration with the country’s basketball stakeholders essential.

    “They have built this huge basketball culture here in the Philippines. We really needed the support of the PBA and the SBP. We have always been talking to both organizations because this is the biggest event we have ever organized in Manila,” he explained.

     

    Beyond the games themselves, the B.League has been laying the groundwork for a stronger presence in the country through various community and cultural initiatives, including fan engagement activities, pop-up events, and Japanese food festivals.


    “Even before these games, we held different events like pop-up activities and food festivals because we believe it’s important not only to bring basketball but also to contribute to the local community,” Okamoto added. “Since we are still a foreign league, building relationships with fans and giving back are very important to us.”


    The Manila Games will also serve as a showcase of what has become one of the B.League’s defining characteristics—its game-day entertainment experience. While the quality of basketball remains the centerpiece, the league has earned a reputation for blending professional sports with high-energy production, interactive fan experiences, and nonstop entertainment throughout each game.


    “Our uniqueness is the entertainment during the games,” Okamoto said. “During halftime, quarter breaks, and throughout the event, we try to provide nonstop entertainment. We want to bring that same atmosphere from Japan to Manila.”


    “We want people to experience what the B.League truly is—not only the quality of the players and the basketball, but also the quality of the entertainment. That is another aspect of our league that we are excited to introduce to Filipino fans.”


    The event also carries broader cultural significance as it coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan. Organizers see the Manila Games as more than a basketball spectacle, viewing it as a celebration of the enduring friendship between the two nations through their shared passion for the sport.


    With two of Japan’s premier clubs, two Filipino stars returning home, and a full B.League game-day experience on display, the B.League Manila Games 2026 promise to deliver a unique basketball event for local fans. As the league takes its first official games beyond Japanese borders, Manila becomes the starting point of what could be a new chapter in the B.League’s international growth and its deepening connection with Philippine basketball.

     

     

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  • Mike Phillips begins Japan chapter, signs with Kyoto Hannaryz in B.League 

    Mike Phillips begins Japan chapter, signs with Kyoto Hannaryz in B.League 

    Mike Phillips’ rapid rise has taken him from the UAAP hardwood to the Gilas Pilipinas frontcourt. Now, it has opened the door to one of Asia’s top professional leagues.

     

    The 24-year-old Filipino-American forward officially signed with the Kyoto Hannaryz for the 2026-27 B.League season, marking another milestone in a career that has gathered momentum over the past year.

     

    The Japanese club announced Phillips’ arrival on Tuesday, making him the latest Filipino talent to continue his development overseas.

     

    “I’m truly honored and grateful for the opportunity to join the Kyoto Hannaryz organization and the B.LEAGUE,” said Phillips.

     

    His move became possible after representing Gilas Pilipinas during Window 3 of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, fulfilling the requirements to compete in the B.League as an Asian Quota player.

     

    Phillips made the most of his opportunity with the national team, averaging 4.0 points and 8.5 rebounds while earning praise for his relentless energy and hustle. Earlier this year, FIBA also granted him local player status, officially clearing him to suit up for the Philippines in international competitions.

     

    Before making the jump overseas, Phillips built an impressive collegiate résumé with De La Salle University.

     

    During his five-year stay with the Green Archers, he helped deliver two UAAP championships and ended his collegiate career on a high note by capturing the Finals MVP award. In his final season, he averaged 12.58 points, 14.58 rebounds, 2.68 assists, and 1.32 steals per contest.

     

    Japan is also familiar territory for Phillips.

     

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    He previously competed there with La Salle during the World University Basketball Series, an experience that left a lasting impression and ultimately made his return even more meaningful.

     

    “During my college years, I had the chance to play in several tournaments in Japan, and those experiences left a strong impression on me. I’m excited to return and experience the passion of basketball in Japan once again,” he recalled.

     

    Phillips also began his professional career with the San Juan Knights in the MPBL, where he averaged 8.4 points and 10.7 rebounds in 10 appearances before deciding to pursue an overseas opportunity.

     

    His family believes the move is another important step in his long-term development.

     

    “The Phillips Family is immensely grateful to everyone from La Salle who has poured knowledge and support into Mike over the years, SBP for allowing the great honor to represent the flag and country, and San Juan Knights for their utmost professionalism and support with this decision,” expressed Mike’s older brother, Ben.

     

    “We believe this will allow Mike to take a great step forward in his career to develop as a player and as a young man, and be able to bring a heightened level of play whenever he is called to serve Gilas, and when he will be able to return to the PBA in the future if hopefully they would accept him.”

     

    Phillips also adds another Filipino connection to the Kyoto franchise, becoming the third Asian Quota player in Hannaryz history after Matthew Wright and Jamie Malonzo.

     

    The Hannaryz are coming off a 28-32 campaign that saw them finish 20th in the 26-team B.League, and Phillips hopes to help the club climb the standings while continuing his own growth as a professional.

     

    “I’m looking forward to giving my all every day alongside my teammates and competing hard for the Kyoto fans and community throughout the season,” expressed Mike, who is represented by Tre Sports Management.

     

    “Thank you very much for your support. I can’t wait to see everyone in Kyoto, and I hope we can have a great season together.”

     

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  • Matthew Wright returns to Japan, signs with Saitama Broncos for 2026-27 B.League season

    Matthew Wright returns to Japan, signs with Saitama Broncos for 2026-27 B.League season

    After stepping away from professional basketball for a year, the Filipino-Canadian guard  Matthew Wright is set to resume his overseas career after signing with the Saitama Broncos for the 2026-27 Japan B.League season.


    The Broncos officially announced Wright’s arrival on Wednesday, bringing the former Gilas Pilipinas standout back to Japan, where he has already built a reputation as one of the league’s reliable veteran guards.

     

    For Wright, the move represents both a fresh start and a continuation of a career that has steadily grown beyond Philippine basketball.

     

    “My family and I cannot wait to embrace the city of Saitama and the Broncos organization,” said Wright.

     

    “I’m looking forward to coming back to Japan and making an immediate impact for the team. Thank you for this opportunity to showcase my talents on the basketball court.”

     

    The upcoming campaign will mark Wright’s fourth season in Japan. He first joined the B.League in 2022 after ending a six-year stint with Phoenix in the PBA, signing with the Kyoto Hannaryz, where he played from the 2022-23 through the 2023-24 seasons.

     

    He later moved to the Kawasaki Brave Thunders for the 2024-25 campaign, averaging 10.4 points, 2.6 assists, and 2.5 rebounds per game before putting basketball on hold to focus on family.

     

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    Although he stepped away from the professional game, Wright still answered the call for the national team during his hiatus. 

     

    He made his lone competitive appearance with Gilas Pilipinas Men, helping the Philippines capture the gold medal at the 34th Southeast Asian Games.

     

    Now back on the hardwood, Wright joins a Saitama squad looking to build on an impressive campaign.

     

    The Broncos compiled a 39-13 record last season to finish third in the B3 division, earning promotion following the B.League’s league restructuring.

     

    Beginning in the 2026-27 season, Saitama will compete in B.One, the league’s newly established second-tier division behind B.Premier, giving Wright the opportunity to contribute to the club’s transition into a more competitive level of Japanese basketball.

     

    His arrival also provides the Broncos with an experienced backcourt presence who has competed in both the PBA and Japan’s top professional league, while representing the Philippines on the international stage.

     

    For Wright, the return is about more than simply playing basketball again. After spending the past year prioritizing family, he now resumes his career with renewed purpose, hoping to make an immediate impact as Saitama embarks on a new chapter in the restructured B.League.

     

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  • Kiefer Ravena retires from Gilas Pilipinas after long international career

    Kiefer Ravena retires from Gilas Pilipinas after long international career

    Veteran guard Kiefer Ravena has officially closed the chapter on his international basketball career, announcing that his time representing the Philippine men’s national basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, has come to an end.

     

    After more than a decade of wearing the national colors at various levels, Ravena said he is ready to step aside and make way for the next generation of Filipino players. The 32-year-old guard reflected on his journey with the national team, describing his experience as a memorable and rewarding chapter of his career.

     

    “I’m done with my career with the national team. It has been fun,” Ravena said to the media while attending Alex Eala’s “Play Mind Games” meet-and-greet event at Nike Fort in Taguig on Monday, July 13.

     

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    Ravena’s Gilas Pilipinas journey began long before he became a fixture in the senior national team. He first represented the country at the youth level in 2009 with the Philippine men’s national Under-17 basketball team, beginning a long association with international basketball that would see him compete in major tournaments across different age groups and formats.

     

    Over the years, Ravena became one of the most recognizable figures in Philippine basketball, known for his leadership, competitiveness, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations. He eventually made the transition to the senior national team, becoming a key contributor in Gilas Pilipinas’ campaigns in international competitions.

     

    His final appearance for the national team came during the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, which was hosted by the Philippines. Ravena played five games in the tournament, averaging 2.6 points and 1.8 assists per game as part of the Gilas squad that competed against some of the world’s top basketball nations.

     

    However, following the transition from former head coach Chot Reyes to current mentor Tim Cone, Ravena found himself outside the national team rotation. Despite calls from some supporters for his return due to his experience and familiarity with international basketball, the veteran guard acknowledged that the program had moved in a different direction.

     

    Ravena accepted the decision and expressed his understanding that the national team is focused on developing a new generation of players who can carry Philippine basketball forward.

    “A lot of people said na hindi pa kailangan, pero nag-retire na nga. That’s the direction that they are going, so for me, there’s no problem with that,” he added.

     

    Although he has made his decision public, Ravena clarified that he has not formally communicated his retirement from Gilas Pilipinas to the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP). For the veteran guard, his decision was personal and did not require an official announcement beyond sharing his intentions.

     

    “I don’t think I have to do that. I don’t think I have to tell anybody at this point of my career, where I am,” Ravena continued.

     

    While his national team career has ended, Ravena’s professional basketball journey continues. The former NLEX Road Warriors standout recently signed with the Ryukyu Golden Kings in the Japan B. League, opening a new chapter as he focuses on extending his club career overseas.

     

    Ravena said he remains fully supportive of Gilas Pilipinas and believes the country’s future remains bright with the emergence of younger players who will take on the responsibility of representing the Philippines on the international stage.

     

    “I’m very happy that I was able to have that opportunity. I’m just in full support for the national team and the next generation of athletes who will represent the Philippines. It’s not that I wasn’t able to represent the country in my career. I have done it in the past. Walang kulang, no regrets, and just full of love. Pro career, and pro family,” he concluded.

     

    During his time with Gilas Pilipinas, Ravena collected numerous achievements and became one of the country’s most decorated national team players. He was part of five Southeast Asian Games gold medal-winning campaigns from 2011 to 2019, helping the Philippines maintain its dominance in regional basketball.

     

    Beyond his medal haul, Ravena’s impact on the national program extended beyond statistics. He served as a veteran presence in the locker room, offering leadership to younger teammates while representing the competitive spirit associated with Philippine basketball.

     

    As he moves forward with his professional career in Japan, Ravena leaves Gilas Pilipinas with a legacy built on commitment, consistency, and pride in representing the country. Though his national team chapter has ended, his influence on Philippine basketball is expected to continue as he enters the next phase of his career.

     

     

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  • Mike Phillips set for reported Japan move after abrupt San Juan exit  

    Mike Phillips set for reported Japan move after abrupt San Juan exit  

    One of the biggest names expected to headline the PBA Season 51 Rookie Draft may no longer hear his name called.

     

    Mike Phillips, widely regarded as one of the most coveted prospects in this year’s class, is reportedly headed overseas after agreeing to a lucrative three-year contract with a team in Japan’s B.League, a move that could dramatically alter the complexion of the upcoming draft.

     

    The development not only signals a major career decision for the former De La Salle standout but also leaves the San Juan Knights scrambling to recover from the unexpected departure of one of their cornerstone players in the middle of a strong MPBL campaign.

     

    San Juan team manager Jun Usman confirmed that Phillips has already parted ways with the club, expressing disappointment over how the separation unfolded.

     

    “Sadly, he left us. What’s unfair is he didn’t even have the balls to talk to us. It was only his brother Ben who informed us of his sudden departure,” said Usman.

     

    According to San Juan, Phillips’ contract included an opt-out clause that allowed him to pursue overseas opportunities. Sources added that his reported B.League deal includes a seven-figure monthly salary along with benefits such as a fully furnished condominium, a dedicated service vehicle, and business-class travel.

     

    While the Knights acknowledged Phillips exercised a provision in his contract, Usman lamented that the organization was caught off guard by the timing and manner of his exit.

     

    “It was so unprofessional of him,” he said. “At nakakalungkot lang na nangyari ito at a time na mismong si Sen eh may pinagdadaanan.”

     

    “Sobrang unfair lang nito sa amin kasi binigla na kami, parang iniwan kami sa ere. Pano kami ngayon,” Usman, whose team owns an impressive record of 14 wins and 1 loss, added.

     

    San Juan officials also revealed that communication with Phillips became difficult following his recent stint with Gilas Pilipinas during the FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers in Australia.

     

    Under B.League regulations, his appearance for the Philippine national team qualifies him for Asian Quota eligibility, making him an attractive target for clubs in Japan’s top division.

     

    Usman said the organization repeatedly attempted to reach Phillips before eventually receiving confirmation of his decision through his brother.

     

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    “Wala, hindi na siya sumasagot sa amin. Ilang tawag at text na ang ginagawa namin, until recently, yung kapatid pa n’ya na si Ben ang nagsabi sa amin na they are terminating their contract [under the opt-out clause],” he said.

     

    Phillips has been one of the MPBL’s most productive big men this season, averaging 8.4 points, 10.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game while anchoring one of the league’s top teams.

     

    His impact was perhaps most evident in San Juan’s statement victory over defending champion Abra Solid North Weavers last May, when he played a key role in a crucial 66-58 triumph that strengthened the Knights’ title aspirations.

     

    Despite expressing frustration over the circumstances, Usman acknowledged that Phillips leaves a significant void on the roster.

     

    “Malaking bagay talaga sa amin si Mike pero ano pa ba ang magagawa namin,” said Usman. “Pero para sa amin, sana man lang nagpaalam ng maayos. Nagkaroon man lang sana kami ng chance na makahirit for him to stay.”

     

    The San Juan executive also maintained that the organization fulfilled its commitments to the high-flying forward, noting that Phillips received his compensation on time through the support of the team’s financial backers.

     

    Should the reported B.League move push through, Phillips would forgo the PBA Rookie Draft altogether and instead continue his rapid rise on the international stage, marking another high-profile Filipino talent choosing an overseas opportunity before beginning a professional career in the PBA.

     

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  • Japan beckons again as Dwight Ramos stays with Levanga, Thirdy Ravena returns to B.League 

    Japan beckons again as Dwight Ramos stays with Levanga, Thirdy Ravena returns to B.League 

    The Philippines’ growing footprint in Japan’s B.League will become even stronger next season, with Dwight Ramos choosing continuity in Hokkaido while Thirdy Ravena secures a return to familiar territory.


    Levanga Hokkaido announced that Ramos has signed a new contract, ensuring the Gilas Pilipinas guard will remain with the club for another campaign after becoming one of its cornerstone players since joining in 2022.

     

    “I want to thank Levanga for bringing me back for another season. I’m very excited to be coming back and continue to grow with the team,” Ramos said in a statement.

     

    “We had a lot of success in our last season and because of that I want to experience more with the team and get a step farther this season in the playoffs and shoot for a championship. Thank you everyone for your support always.”

     

    Ramos first entered the B.League with the Toyama Grouses before moving to Levanga, where he has steadily developed into one of the team’s most reliable contributors.

     

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    His return comes after Hokkaido posted a 37-23 record last season, narrowly falling short of a playoff berth. Levanga finished four games behind Alvark Tokyo, which claimed the final quarterfinal spot with a 41-19 record.

     

    The organization believes Ramos still has another level to reach.

     

    “Last season, he was one of the key players supporting the team’s success and contributing to our victories, but his potential is far greater than what we’ve seen so far,” said Levanga general manager Ryota Sakurai.

     

    Ramos’ extension also sets the stage for his return to Manila in September, when Levanga Hokkaido takes part in the B.League Manila Games. He is expected to face fellow Gilas standout AJ Edu and the Gunma Crane Thunders in a preseason matchup at the Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    While Ramos opted to continue his journey with the same club, Thirdy Ravena will be writing a new chapter after the Toyama Grouses officially welcomed him back to Japan.

     

    The former Ateneo standout returns to the B.League after spending the 2024-2025 season in the ABA League with Dubai, where he appeared in 18 games and saw limited playing time.

     

    “I’m excited to come back to Japan and play my best for the Grouses this season,” Ravena said in the team’s announcement, while also posting on Instagram. “Back in the Land.”

     

    The move fulfills the goal Ravena openly shared during the recent B.League Final Week in Manila, where he spoke about wanting another opportunity to compete in Japan.

     

    “Japan B.League has been my first professional league and they’ve always welcomed me with open arms, they’ve treated me like family since the first day I got there so I’d love to play in the B.League once again,” he said then.

     

    His signing with Toyama officially makes that return a reality.

     

    The Ravena brothers will also have another representative in the B.League next season, with older brother Kiefer Ravena beginning his stint with the Ryukyu Golden Kings after an impressive campaign with the Yokohama B-Corsairs.

     

    With Ramos remaining in Hokkaido, Thirdy making his comeback, and Kiefer starting fresh in Ryukyu, Filipino talent will once again have a prominent presence across Japan’s top professional basketball league.

     

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  • Kiefer Ravena extends Japan stint, moves to third team in B.League 

    Kiefer Ravena extends Japan stint, moves to third team in B.League 

    Kiefer Ravena’s run in Japan is far from over, with the Filipino guard confirming he will remain in the B.League and continue his professional career with a new team following the end of his stint with the Yokohama B-Corsairs.


    His contract with Yokohama officially concluded after the 2026 Japan B.League regular season, closing a two-year chapter that saw him play a key role for the club. 

     

    But rather than signaling a return elsewhere, Ravena made it clear that another opportunity in Japan is already waiting—just not yet revealed.

     

    “I’m staying in Japan, just transferring teams, continuing my growth as a player and as a man,” Ravena said.

     

    The 32-year-old guard averaged 11.9 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.8 rebounds per game for the B-Corsairs, who finished the season with a 26-34 record. 

     

    While the numbers reflect his steady contribution, Ravena’s impact has also been defined by his leadership and consistency as one of the team’s primary backcourt options.

     

    This next move extends a Japanese journey that began in 2021, when Ravena first joined the Shiga Lakestars, now known as the Shiga Lakes. 

     

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    He spent three seasons there before making the switch to Yokohama in 2024, where he continued to build his reputation as one of the most recognizable Filipino imports in the league.

     

    Now, with a third B.League stop on the horizon, Ravena remains one of the key figures in the steady rise of Filipino talent in Japan’s top professional basketball league.

     

    For Ravena, however, his decision to stay overseas goes beyond statistics or team changes. The experience itself continues to be the driving force behind his career.

     

    “Not that I have more motivation to play basketball, to represent Jordan Brand, play for my family, and my own family in the future, pero sobrang rejuvenating,” the former Gilas Pilipinas guard said.

     

    Since leaving the PBA in 2021, Ravena has helped pave the way for more Filipino players to take their talents globally, becoming one of the early faces of the B.League’s growing international presence.

     

    While his next destination remains under wraps, one thing is clear—Ravena’s Japan story is still being written, with another chapter set to begin soon in a new jersey.

     

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  • Ray Parks Jr. stays in B.League, signs with Ibaraki Robots for 2026-27 season 

    Ray Parks Jr. stays in B.League, signs with Ibaraki Robots for 2026-27 season 

    Ray Parks Jr. will remain in the B.League for the 2026-27 season after signing with the Ibaraki Robots, giving the club a proven veteran as it looks to improve on its 19-41 record and 10th-place finish in the East Division last season.


    After concluding a two-season stint with Osaka Evessa, the Filipino standout has found a new home with the Ibaraki Robots, giving the rebuilding franchise a proven veteran as it looks to reverse its fortunes.

     

    The move keeps Parks in Japan, where he has steadily built one of the most successful careers by a Filipino player in the B.League. Having previously suited up for the Nagoya Diamond Dolphins and Osaka Evessa, the former Gilas Pilipinas guard enters his third stop in the league carrying a reputation as a dependable scorer, facilitator, and leader.

     

    For Ibaraki, the signing comes at a crucial time as the Robots are seeking a fresh identity after a difficult 2025-26 campaign that saw them finish with a 19-41 record and place 10th in the East Division. 

     

    By bringing in a player with Parks’ experience, the organization is signaling its intent to become more competitive in the upcoming season.

     

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    Parks joins the club after helping Osaka Evessa during the previous campaign. His departure became official after Evessa announced the expiration of his contract, ending a partnership that lasted two seasons.

     

    Rather than viewing the move as a setback, Parks sees it as an opportunity to help shape a new project.

     

    “To the Ibaraki Robots fans, I’m really excited for this next chapter and grateful for the opportunity to be part of your organization,” Parks said.

     

    “I can already feel the energy and support, and I can’t wait to meet everyone soon, compete together, and give everything I have for the team and the city.”

     

    The 33-year-old added that he hopes to contribute to Ibaraki’s rise in the standings and help establish the Robots as legitimate contenders in the seasons ahead.

     

    Long before becoming a fixture in Japan’s top professional league, Parks built his resume across multiple levels of Asian basketball. He suited up for San Miguel Alab Pilipinas in the ASEAN Basketball League and also played in the PBA for Blackwater Bossing and TNT Tropang 5G.

     

    His continued success overseas has made him one of the most recognizable Filipino imports in Asia, and his latest move presents another opportunity to add to that legacy.

     

    As Ibaraki looks to move beyond a 19-win season and Osaka turns the page after a 23-27 campaign, Parks finds himself at the center of a new challenge—one that could redefine the trajectory of both player and club in the 2026-27 B.League season.

     

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  • Ray Parks Jr. keeps future open after Osaka exit, confirms local and overseas offers 

    Ray Parks Jr. keeps future open after Osaka exit, confirms local and overseas offers 

    Fresh off concluding his stint with Osaka Evessa in the Japan B.League, Ray Parks Jr. admitted that the next step in his basketball career remains undecided.


    Parks returned to Manila on Thursday for the B.League Final Week event at SM Megamall, where questions immediately surrounded his future after officially parting ways with Osaka.

     

    “For me, it was time to move on to the next chapter, whatever that may be,” Parks said.

     

    The veteran guard spent two seasons with Osaka after previously playing for the Nagoya Diamond Dolphins, continuing a successful run overseas that established him as one of the more recognizable Filipino imports in Japan.

     

    In his final season with the Evessa, Parks helped the club finish with a 23-27 record in the B.League regular season.

     

    Although Osaka struggled to contend consistently, Parks still looked back positively on his stay with the franchise.

     

    “The stint was amazing especially like the first year. Second year, medyo rough honestly but it was great to be in Osaka. It’s a beautiful city, I love my teammates, very talented… For me it was time to move on to the next chapter, whatever that may be,” he said.

     

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    Despite remaining noncommittal about his next destination, Parks confirmed he is already receiving interest from teams both abroad and in the Philippines.

     

    “Yes, we do have offers both internationally and locally,” he revealed.

     

    Still, the 33-year-old said basketball decisions are not his immediate priority as he plans to spend time with his family during the offseason.

     

    “But, I can’t even feel the offseason yet. I’ll take care of the kids first and I’ll be away for maybe a month for the honeymoon, take some rest, and then tackle things from there,” Parks added.

     

    His statement naturally fueled renewed speculation regarding a possible return to the PBA, where he last played for TNT Tropang Giga before leaving for Japan.

     

    While Parks avoided directly addressing any negotiations involving PBA teams, he made it clear that he remains open to all opportunities moving forward.

     

    “Next question po tayo, mahirap po ‘yan, pa-retiro na nga ako e,” Parks jokingly said.

     

    “The PBA is doing what they’re doing and for me, I’m hoping for growth, I’m never closing the door on anybody. The Philippines will always be my home. For the most part right now, I’m just focused on the offseason and whatever the next chapter is, I’ll be ready.”

     

    At this stage of his career, Parks appears to be balancing both flexibility and patience — weighing whether his next chapter will continue overseas or finally bring him back to Philippine basketball.

     

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