Shinjuku Givers Set to Shine at Cebu Hustle 3x3
The Shinjuku Givers, a women's professional 3x3 basketball team based in Shinjuku, Japan, has been invited to participate in the inaugural Cebu Hustle 3x3 tournament, scheduled for June 20-21, 2026, in Cebu, Philippines. This marks a historic moment for the team as it competes alongside local Filipino squads and teams from various countries, making it a significant event in the basketball calendar.
An International Stage in Cebu
The Cebu Hustle 3x3 tournament will feature 12 teams total: six from the Philippines and six international teams, with Shinjuku Givers being one of the prestigious invitees from Japan. The event aims to highlight the growing popularity of women's basketball and is organized by Multiflex RNC Philippines Inc. in collaboration with sponsors such as Uratex, Smart, and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (Philippine Basketball Association). The tournament offers a prize pool of $3,000 for the winning team, demonstrating the competitive spirit behind the event.
Embracing the Spirit of Shinjuku
Prior to their departure for Cebu, the Shinjuku Givers team, including their captain Naho Mizuno and business representative Yasuhiro Aki, paid a visit to Kenji Yoshizumi, the Mayor of Shinjuku. During the meeting, they discussed the team’s commitment to representing Shinjuku on the world stage, emphasizing the integration of diverse cultures within the Shinjuku area, and the importance of providing a supportive environment for children to enjoy sports. The team is proud to carry the name of Shinjuku as they embark on this international journey.
A Commitment to Scientific Training
The Shinjuku Givers are operated by the givers group, known for their focus on evidence-based health care. This approach is exemplified by their collaboration with Tohoku University, the findings of which were published in a peer-reviewed article in the journal PLOS ONE, highlighting their commitment to scientific backing in sports training. The team is supported by Saburo Hagiwara, an athletic trainer with a decade of experience in Major League Baseball (MLB), who plays a crucial role in enhancing the athletes' physical strength and conditioning through scientifically validated methods.
Goals and Olympic Aspirations
With an eye on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the Shinjuku Givers aim to provide their athletes with the best possible conditions for continued competition and development. Women athletes face higher risks of injuries, such as ACL tears, compared to their male counterparts. The team emphasizes proper training and care to ensure long-term participation in sports. The experiences gathered on the international stage in Cebu are viewed as crucial steps toward their Olympic ambitions.
Local Community Engagement
In addition to their competitive pursuits, the givers group also engages in community initiatives aimed at fostering interactions and supporting healthy living through sports activities. They organize tag games for children in parks and sports facilities, encouraging an active lifestyle. These grassroots efforts complement their commitment to supporting youth sports and promoting physical fitness in the community.
Voices from Leadership
Yasuhiro Aki, the CEO of givers Holdings, proudly stated, “We are honored to represent Shinjuku on an international platform. Our focus on evidence-based training lays a strong foundation for our athletes to compete globally. We hope this challenge in Cebu will pave the way to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.”
Team Overview
- - Team Name: Shinjuku Givers (Women's Professional 3x3)
- - Operating Company: Givers Holdings, Inc.
- - Representative: Yasuhiro Aki, CEO
- - Business: Provider of healthcare services through the “Cocoro” brand
- - Location: 6-29-3 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan, 9th floor, Shinjuku Kuwahara Building
To follow their journey and learn more about their initiatives in both competition and community work, visit their official website
Shinjuku Givers or follow them on Instagram @givers3x3.
Conclusion
The Shinjuku Givers are not just aiming to win a basketball tournament; they are building towards a legacy in athletics that emphasizes scientific training, community engagement, and support for women in sports. As they prepare to showcase their skills in Cebu, the future looks bright for this determined team.