B.LEAGUE makes historic overseas debut with Manila Games 2026

Japanese professional basketball takes center stage in the Philippines this week as the Japan Professional Basketball League (B.LEAGUE) stages its first-ever official games outside Japan with the B.LEAGUE MANILA GAMES 2026 on Sept. 9 and 10 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The two-day basketball showcase will feature Levanga Hokkaido and Gunma Crane Thunders, with both games scheduled for a 7 p.m. tip-off.

B.LEAGUE Commissioner Shinji Shimada said the Manila Games mark a significant milestone for the league as it expands its international presence and brings Japanese professional basketball closer to Filipino fans.

The event is organized by B.LEAGUE in cooperation with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) and the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), with the support of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines.

The games will allow Filipino basketball fans to experience the style, competitiveness, and entertainment of Japan's professional league, thereby further strengthening basketball ties between Japan and the Philippines.

For Game 1 on Sept. 9, doors will open at 5 p.m., followed by the official opening at 6 p.m. The schedule shows players entering at 6:15 p.m. with the B.LEAGUE MANILA GAMES ceremony at 6:25 p.m.

Players will begin warm-ups at 6:30 p.m., followed by the starting five introductions at 6:55 p.m. before the 7 p.m. tip-off.

The halftime program will feature a performance by Electro Groovers, presented by NISSEI CO., LTD., while post-game activities will include on-court interviews.

They will follow the same schedule for Game 2 on Sept. 10, with the addition of the TOYOTA CHOICE MVP announcement following the game.

The Manila Games form part of B.LEAGUE's efforts to broaden its international reach and create stronger connections with basketball communities beyond Japan.

With the Philippines widely regarded as one of the world's most passionate basketball nations, the league's decision to hold its inaugural overseas games in Manila underscores the strong basketball relationship between the two countries.

For more information, visit the official B.LEAGUE Manila Games website.