YKK AP Partners with Rui Hachimura for Special Homecoming Event in Japan

YKK AP Presents BLACK SAMURAI Toyama Homecoming

In a noteworthy initiative, YKK AP Corporation has signed a partnership agreement with professional basketball player Rui Hachimura for his first official homecoming event, titled "BLACK SAMURAI Toyama Homecoming". This event will take place on August 22 at YKK APARENA (Toyama City Gymnasium) and is part of Hachimura's larger project dedicated to nurturing the next generation of athletes, known as "BLACK SAMURAI 2026".

Hachimura, who has made a name for himself in the NBA, considers Toyama Prefecture his hometown—the very place where his journey as a basketball player began. Similarly, YKK AP has roots in Toyama, where the company first established its building materials business. The region has evolved into a hub for research, development, and production, emphasizing technological advancement. YKK AP aims to bolster their manufacturing and development capabilities in Toyama as they strive to become a globally leading company.

The homecoming event serves as an opportunity for Hachimura to return to his roots while emphasizing the theme of collaborative community growth beyond basketball. Hachimura is passionate about inspiring the youth of Toyama through his project and is eager to unite the community in celebration. YKK AP shares this vision, resonating deeply with Hachimura's ambition to promote youth development and his attachment to his hometown. Through this partnership, YKK AP endeavors to enhance the overall experience of the event, ensuring that everyone enjoys the festivities of "BLACK SAMURAI Toyama Homecoming". They aim to foster an atmosphere where children can dream big and look towards the world through interactions with Hachimura.

Moreover, from July 17 to July 23, YKK AP will run a campaign on their official social media account on platform 'X', giving fans a chance to win tickets to this much-anticipated event.

In its commitment to community welfare through sports, YKK AP has sponsored various professional sports teams, including the Toyama Grouses, the local basketball team. They have also signed a naming rights partnership with the management company of YKK AP ARENA, which will soon reopen after renovations in October. This new era will allow YKK AP to strengthen its ties with the community and further promote regional revitalization initiatives through sports and events.

Event Overview

Name:

YKK AP PRESENTS BLACK SAMURAI Toyama Homecoming

Date:

August 22, 2026 (Saturday)

Venue:

YKK AP ARENA (Toyama City Gymnasium)

Organized by:

BLACK SAMURAI Toyama Homecoming Executive Committee (BLACK SAMURAI, Kitanihon Broadcasting Co., Ltd.)

Sponsors:

YKK AP Corporation (Presenting Partner), AXS Japan LLC

Co-hosted by:

Toyama Prefecture, Toyama City

Special cooperation from:

Toyama Grouses

Program Highlights

Inside the Arena

- Basketball Clinic (fee-based tickets required)

Around 200 local youth from Toyama will participate in a special class hosted by Hachimura and members of the Toyama Grouses, providing a unique opportunity to experience the joy of playing basketball with Hachimura.

- Talk Event (fee-based tickets required)

The audience will witness poignant discussions about Hachimura's childhood in Toyama, his journey to the NBA, and themes centering on his origins, along with Q&A sessions, special programs with the Toyama Grouses, and interactive opportunities for fan engagement. Detailed information about the day’s events will be shared via the BLACK SAMURAI official website and social media.

Outside the Arena

- BLACK SAMURAI Night Festival (some areas require paid entry)

The event will transcend its basketball roots, featuring a variety of exclusive content for attendees. Activities include:
- A massive Yagura (traditional stage) to host a lively Night Festival involving the entire area.
- DJ performances starting in the afternoon, culminating in a collaborative stage featuring traditional Toyama festival dances.
- A community-focused festival atmosphere emulating the beloved Sannō Matsuri, with local gourmet food and culturally rich experiences available throughout the event.

This homecoming event represents a merging of professional sports and community spirit, combining entertainment with the essence of Toyama's rich cultural heritage, igniting dreams among the youth, and further positioning Hachimura as a role model for aspiring athletes.

For more information about Hachimura’s program, check out the official websites: