Project B: The New Basketball League Arrives in Tokyo in 2027
The brand new basketball league, Project B, in both its women’s and men’s divisions, has announced its stop in Tokyo for April 2027. The Japanese city becomes the first official venue confirmed by the organization. This tournament in Tokyo will be part of a global circuit spanning seven stops, with a season that will run from November to April. Each host city will host a ten-day event, where a local champion will be crowned, contributing to the ranking for the season championship. The men’s and women’s tournament matches in Tokyo will be played at the Toyota Arena, with scheduled dates from March 26 to April 4.Each tournament will feature the participation of 66 players divided into six teams. The league has already presented ten outstanding female players, including Nneka Ogwumike, Alyssa Thomas, Jonquel Jones, Jewell Loyd, and Kelsey Mitchell. Japanese star Mai Yamamoto will also compete in the league, according to the announcement made on Thursday.“We are honored to bring Project B to Tokyo together with our partners in Japan,” said Keisuke Mitsui, director of Project B Japan. “Tokyo is at the intersection of global culture, innovation, and basketball, with a fanbase that truly understands and loves the game. Japan has shown what is possible when investing in players and fans, and the Toyota Arena will be an iconic stage for our athletes and a destination for basketball fans around the world.”
Keisuke Mitsui, director of Project B Japan
The names of the male players will be announced later this year. According to the organization, the players will receive salaries higher than those currently offered by the WNBA. They are also expected to surpass those of Unrivaled, the 3-on-3 league that debuted last year and features several of the best WNBA players. Although specific financial details haven’t been disclosed, the prospect of more lucrative compensation comes at a crucial time for women’s professional basketball.“It’s a true honor to be part of Project B, and I am deeply grateful for this opportunity,” expressed Yamamoto. “I want to use this global stage to show the world the ‘Japanese Dynamism’, our unique speed and passion. Carrying the pride of Japan in my heart, I am excited to welcome the world’s elite to my home country.”
Mai Yamamoto, basketball player
