#Japan #Tokyo #B.LEAGUE #JSC #Referee Support

B.LEAGUE and JSC Join Forces for Enhanced Sportsmanship

In a groundbreaking development, the Japan Sports Council (JSC) has officially signed a partnership agreement with the Japan Professional Basketball League, commonly known as B.LEAGUE. This new collaboration includes a dual focus on sports promotion and referee support, officially named the B.LEAGUE SPORTSPROMOTION & REFEREE SUPPORTING PARTNER contract.

Starting from the 2022-23 season, this initiative aims to improve the conditions and support for B.LEAGUE referees, particularly the Japan Basketball Association (JBA) certified professional referees. This is a significant step towards reinforcing a culture of respect among all associated with B.LEAGUE, including players, coaches, fans, and officials alike.

Why Respect Matters

Under the slogan RESPECT for the GAME, JSC and B.LEAGUE are committed to creating a safer and more enjoyable environment for basketball enthusiasts. The emphasis on respect is not just limited to game conduct but extends to the essential components that make basketball a beloved sport — players, referees, and fans.

To put this philosophy into action, B.LEAGUE plans to showcase the RESPECT for the GAME logo on referee apparel starting in the 2025-26 season. This initiative aims to ensure that the value of respect is continuously reflected on the court.

Moreover, part of the partnership includes organizing referee training workshops aimed at improving skills and enhancing the overall environment for officials, thus ensuring that everyone involved in the game can operate at their best.

Comments from Leadership

During the contract signing, JSC Chairman Katsuaki Ashida expressed the organization's fundamental belief in promoting sports as a mechanism for healthy development and community well-being. He emphasized that the vision of B.LEAGUE aligns closely with JSC's core philosophy.

Ashida also noted the recent amendment to Japan's Sports Basic Law, which reinforces the necessity of ensuring fairness and integrity in sports. He pointed out that instilling respect is increasingly becoming a vital theme that the future of sports must address.

Additionally, Shinji Shimada, the Chairman of B.LEAGUE, expressed gratitude for the collaboration with JSC, acknowledging its potential to further enrich the basketball experience in Japan. He highlighted that the initiative goes beyond mere spectator enjoyment, linking it to sports promotion funding through the WINNER lottery.

A Focus on Fair Play

Professional referee Yuki Kato, who is a multiple recipient of the B.LEAGUE Best Referee Award, represents the refereeing community in voicing appreciation for JSC's commitment to promoting fair play and respect within the league. Kato assured that this partnership will facilitate the refinement of referee skills and contribute to the overarching goal of expanding basketball's enjoyment throughout Japan.

Upcoming Initiatives

As part of the joint effort, JSC and B.LEAGUE are set to roll out the WINNER lottery starting September 20, providing fans yet another way to engage with the sport. The lottery includes options for predicting game outcomes and future champions, contributing a portion of the proceeds to sports promotion initiatives. As anticipation builds for the 2025-26 season, B.LEAGUE encourages fans to partake in this exciting venture.

Through this collaboration, both organizations are determined to strengthen the framework of basketball in Japan, ensuring it remains a source of joy and unity for many. The ongoing focus on respect and fair play paves the way for a more inclusive and supportive sporting environment.