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EASL officially confirms the 12th participating team for 2025–26
The East Asia Super League (EASL) has officially confirmed its 12th team for the 2025–26 season—Japan’s 2025 Emperor’s Cup champion. This move marks a historic moment for Japanese basketball, as it will be the first time three B.LEAGUE clubs participate in a single EASL campaign.
This special inclusion also honors the 100th anniversary of the Emperor’s Cup, adding both prestige and competitive depth to the EASL lineup.
Since the league's inaugural 2023–24 season, B.LEAGUE teams have proven dominant, boasting a combined 23–7 record and clinching back-to-back championships. This expansion not only highlights Japan’s growing influence in Asian basketball but also strengthens the EASL’s commitment to showcasing the region’s top talent.
Henry Kerins, CEO of East Asia Super League, said the growth of Japanese basketball is truly remarkable, and the EASL will continue to elevate its standing in order to deliver even more competitive and thrilling action for fans.
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“The recent growth of Japanese basketball has been nothing short of remarkable, with the B.LEAGUE standing out as one of the top leagues in the world. With this move, we continue to elevate the EASL’s standing as the premier platform for basketball in the region, delivering even more competitive and thrilling action for fans,” said Henry Kerins.
Among the confirmed teams is the Ryukyu Golden Kings, 2025 Emperor’s Cup champions, making their third consecutive EASL appearance. The Kings impressed in their recent campaign, posting a 5–1 group stage record and reaching the EASL Final Four 2025.
If the Emperor’s Cup champion also qualifies for the B.LEAGUE Finals, the EASL slot will be passed to the runner-up. Should both teams reach the Finals, the highest-seeded Semifinalist not advancing will claim the spot. This ensures Japan sends its next-strongest representative to the EASL.
Meanwhile, the final confirmation of all three Japanese teams will be announced following the 2024–25 B.LEAGUE Championship Semifinals.
