Yuki Tokashiki, a 34-year-old veteran of the Japanese women’s basketball team, participated in an intensive training camp in Tokyo on Thursday, preparing for the World Cup scheduled for September in Germany. The camp was opened to the media. In May, the team will face Latvia in the Mitsui Fudosan Cup at Yokohama BUNTAI on May 16 and 17. Tokashiki declared her determination, saying, “If there’s a big man on the court, I’ll guard them.”
The veteran actively communicates with younger players, fostering a competitive spirit. “I’m not ready to lose to them yet,” she said, but added, “They definitely have stronger aspects than me, so I want to work together to elevate Japanese basketball.”
After making her return to the national team in 2025 following a three-year absence, the veteran now aims for a spot on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic team. She missed the 2021 Tokyo Olympics due to injury and was not selected for the 2024 Paris Games. “I can’t say anything for sure yet. There’s a possibility I could be dropped at the last moment, so anything could happen. But this process is very important,” she said, tightening her focus. “I want to contribute solidly to the team on defense and rebounding.” She is fully committed to fulfilling her role as needed.
