Basketball in Japan has a rich history, dating back to its introduction in the late 19th century. The sport gained popularity quickly, leading to the establishment of the Japan Basketball Association in 1930. Today, basketball is played at various levels, from schools to professional leagues, with the B.League being the top professional league in the country. Japanese players have made significant contributions to the sport, with notable figures like Yuta Watanabe and Rui Hachimura gaining recognition in the NBA. The sport continues to grow in popularity, with increasing participation and fan engagement across the nation.