#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyo GreatBears #Clever Protein #Masahiro Yanagida

Clever's New Ambassador: Masahiro Yanagida

Clever, a premium protein brand by Nature Lab based in Tokyo's Shibuya, has appointed professional volleyball player Masahiro Yanagida as its latest ambassador. The brand is set to launch a fresh campaign this April, featuring a new commercial (CM) and eye-catching visuals that emphasize the brand's core values.

Masahiro Yanagida: A Rising Star in Japanese Volleyball

Since joining the national team in 2013, Yanagida has steadily built his impressive career. In 2018, he took on the role of captain, leading Japan's team on both domestic and international fronts. His strong performance and ability to make quick, clever decisions have made him a standout player in the volleyball community. These qualities resonate deeply with Clever’s brand identity, which emphasizes smart decision-making and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

The brand’s new campaign will include a captivating original movie showcasing Yanagida's dynamic gameplay, emphasizing the unique message behind the Clever High Absorption Protein, which highlights its absorption efficiency and performance-boosting properties. Clever has developed this next-generation protein using advanced enzyme technology that breaks down whey peptides into smaller molecules, significantly enhancing absorption rates and providing effective nutritional support.

Original Brand Movie Overview

• - Title: Clever “Clever Decision. Yanagida’s Version” (15s/30s)
• - Featuring: Masahiro Yanagida (Tokyo GreatBears)
• - Narrator: Kaito Ishikawa
• - Watch Here: 15s | 30s
• - Release: The commercial is slated to air starting April 2026.

Other short films have been created focusing on the theme of “Clever Decisions.” The visual storytelling illustrates Yanagida’s extraordinary physical prowess, showcasing his powerful spikes and serves, as well as his impressive leg strength that allows him to jump high numerous times. The staff was captivated by the aesthetic beauty of his muscular physique, which is a testament to his dedication and stoic approach towards achieving peak performance. Yanagida embodies the message of “Clever Decisions” through his committed lifestyle and uncompromised discipline, aligning perfectly with Clever's premium brand vision.

Masahiro Yanagida's Profile

• - Name: Masahiro Yanagida
• - Birthdate: July 6, 1992
• - Height: 186 cm | Weight: 80 kg | Handedness: Right
• - Team: Tokyo GreatBears | Position: Outside hitter

During his time at Toyo High School, he won the spring championship in his second year. He made his debut in the national representative team in 2013 and was appointed as captain in April 2018. He has become a beacon of hope for Japan's volleyball scene through his compelling playing style, often celebrated for its aesthetic appeal. Notably, he was elected as a director of the Japan Volleyball Association (JVA) in June 2025, marking a historic moment as he became the first active pro player to hold that position.

Yanagida shared, “I’m thrilled to become an ambassador for Clever Protein. As an athlete, it’s indispensable for my daily conditioning, and I’m grateful for this partnership with a brand so beloved by many. I hope this initiative helps more people discover the wonders of Clever Protein.”

The Tokyo GreatBears: A New Identity

Established in June 2022 by Nature Lab, Tokyo GreatBears emerged from the transfer of the FC Tokyo volleyball team. The team name is inspired by the constellation Ursa Major, symbolizing unity among players and supporters through the sport of volleyball, aiming to connect communities locally and globally.

More on their official site: Tokyo GreatBears

Voice Artist: Kaito Ishikawa

Kaito Ishikawa, born on October 13 in Tokyo, is a talented voice actor currently affiliated with Stay Luck. He has lent his voice to various media projects and greatly contributed as the narrator for “VOLLEYBALL DREAM,” venturing into the world of Tokyo GreatBears’ first season. His notable roles include Iwaizumi Hajime in “Haikyuu!!” and Tenya Iida in “My Hero Academia.”

Experience Clever at Tokyo GreatBear’s Home Games

On February 14th and 15th, during the home games of the Tokyo GreatBears (against the JTEKT Stings), fans can visit the Clever brand booth, which will showcase Yanagida's new campaign visuals. Attendees can sample the new Clever High Absorption Protein in three flavors and receive exclusive postcards featuring Yanagida when they purchase the product. Special signed cards will only be available for those who buy the “Complete Set” (with an original shaker).

Limited Edition Postcards

Fans can receive limited postcards at the Clever booth. The designed postcards will be exclusive to those purchasing the “Complete Set” and will not be available on the Nature Lab store. From February 15th, customers buying the Clever High Absorption Protein can receive a limited postcard only available for each flavor (Chocolate, Mixed Berry, and Café Latte).

Stay tuned for advance reservations beginning February 6th at Nature Lab Store.

Clever's Philosophy

Clever embraces the aspiration towards an ideal body through clever choices, aiming to deliver high-quality premium supplements to help individuals achieve peak performance in reaching their fitness goals. Their quest focuses on maintaining the highest purity standards while providing the best fuels for overcoming daily challenges, thereby ensuring that their customers never lose sight of their ambitions.

Learn more at Clever's Official Site