Introduction
The 43rd William Jones Cup International Basketball Tournament’s women’s division concluded on the 10th, setting the stage for the men’s division, which will begin on the 13th. Despite Korea’s absence this year, the traditional “Taiwan-Japan Showdown” remains a highlight. Japan brings its U22 national team, while the Philippines bolsters its squad with three foreign players and several athletes from overseas leagues, aiming for the championship.
Japan
As the key opponent in the classic opening game “Taiwan-Japan Showdown,” Japan is represented by its U22 national team. Returning players include freshman sensation Hiyu Ozawa and mixed-race college player Anthony Sho Jekawa, alongside new addition U19 national player Yuta Kimibayashi. With an average age of just 20.1 years, the team’s height averages at 190.7 cm.
Philippines
The Philippines’ Strong Group Athletics basketball team forms the core of their squad, featuring 15 players, including three foreign athletes. Notably, Chris McCullough, who played for the Formosa Dreamers last season, and five domestic players who compete abroad, including veteran guard Kiefer Ravena, who played for Shiga Lakes in the B1 League last season. Head coach Charles Tiu confidently stated, “I hope to bring the Jones Cup championship back to the Philippines after a long time.”
Australia
Australia is represented by the Brisbane Southern League’s Giants. Last year, they played a friendly match against the Taiwan men’s basketball team. Although the Giants’ strength should not be underestimated, their participation was made possible through a crowdfunding campaign that raised over $20,000.
United States
The United States previously sent the NCAA Division I UC Irvine team, which displayed immense strength and won the championship. This year, the team comprises players from various backgrounds, including the 40-year-old Marcus Elliott, who currently plays for Bangkok Hi-Tech in the Asian Basketball Champions League and was once an ABL league MVP. Additionally, McKenzie Moore, who participated in the Jones Cup with the Philippines’ Mighty Sports team in 2019, returns to compete against his former team.
Teams and Key Players
| Team | Key Players | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Japan | Hiyu Ozawa, Anthony Sho Jekawa, Yuta Kimibayashi | Young team with an average age of 20.1 years |
| Philippines | Chris McCullough, Kiefer Ravena | Strong Group Athletics, aims for the championship |
| Australia | Giants of Brisbane Southern League | Funded participation through crowdfunding |
| United States | Marcus Elliott, McKenzie Moore | Experienced players with previous Jones Cup success |
Conclusion
The 43rd William Jones Cup International Basketball Tournament promises exciting matches, featuring young talent from Japan, a strengthened Philippines team, a resilient Australian squad, and a diverse United States team. Basketball fans can look forward to a thrilling competition as these teams vie for the championship title.(FADA888)