Kuraishi relieves Hobbs at the helm of Japan
Nuovo coach per la nazionale asiatica
Citing health issues, David Hobbs decided to step down as Japan national team headcoach. The 60-year-old, who did not officially resign from the post, is unlikely to return and will be replaced by Osamu Kuraishi, the former Hitachi Sunrockers headcoach. The now interim coach will lead Japan in the Asia Championship to take place in the beginning of September in China. As Japan seeks to earn a spot in the World Championship next year, Kuraishi pointed out the team's weaknesses regarding the lack size and power, naming full-court game and zone defense as the antidote.
Japan will miss two of its biggest stars, as Takuya Kawamura and Yuta Tabuse renounced to the national team this year, seeking a spot in the NBA.