Corey Gaines Takes the Helm: A New Era for Japan Women’s Basketball
The Japan Basketball Association is thrilled to announce Corey Gaines as the new head coach of the Japan Women’s National Team. Gaines brings a wealth of experience from both the men’s and women’s game, having played professionally in top leagues worldwide, including the NBA, and coached championship-winning teams in the WNBA.
Gaines’s journey with Japanese basketball began in 1997 when he joined the Japan Energy Griffins, playing alongside future Japan Men’s National team head coach Tom Horvath. this experience fostered a deep understanding of Japanese basketball culture and ignited a passion for the sport in Japan.
His coaching career is equally notable.Gaines led the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury to two championships as head coach, demonstrating his ability to build winning teams and develop talent. He has also served as an assistant coach for NBA teams, including the Phoenix Suns, gaining invaluable experience at the highest level of professional basketball.
Gaines’s commitment to Japanese basketball extends beyond his coaching roles. In 2016,he served as an advisory coach for the Japan Women’s national Team,and as 2022,he has been an integral part of the Japan Men’s National Team coaching staff,supporting them through the FIBA World Cup 2023 and the Paris 2024 Olympic qualifiers.
“When I first came to Japan to play basketball, my life changed forever,” Gaines shared. “Over a decade ago, I set out to change the world’s perception of women’s basketball. Now, I’m ready to rediscover what it means to represent Japan and guide this team back to greatness.”
Gaines will officially begin his role with the Japan Women’s National Team in March,following his commitments with the men’s team.
Japan Basketball Association President Yuko Miyah expressed her confidence in gaines’s leadership: “Coach Gaines possesses extensive experience coaching at the highest levels of both men’s and women’s basketball. His familiarity with Japanese basketball culture and his proven track record of success make him the ideal candidate to lead our women’s national team to new heights on the world stage.”
Gaines’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Japan Women’s Basketball. With his experience, passion, and dedication, he is poised to guide the team towards a bright future.
A Basketball Journey: From NBA Courts to Leading Japan
This accomplished coach boasts a rich history in basketball, both as a player and a leader. With deep ties to Japan, he’s now guiding the nation’s men’s team towards international success.
His connection to Japan extends beyond his coaching role.He holds japanese heritage through his grandmother and has been actively involved with both the men’s and women’s national teams for years. This familiarity with Japanese basketball culture and playing styles has proven invaluable.
He first made his mark on the international stage as an advisory coach for the Japanese women’s national team during the Rio 2016 Olympics, focusing on offensive strategies. His expertise helped shape the team’s performance on the global stage.
In 2022, he transitioned to the men’s side, taking on the role of associate head coach. His leadership was quickly recognized, leading to his appointment as head coach for the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.
A Legacy of Coaching Excellence
His coaching career spans over two decades, showcasing his versatility and adaptability across various leagues and levels.
He began his coaching journey in the American Basketball Association (ABA) with the Long Beach Jam, initially as a player-assistant coach before assuming the head coaching position in 2005.
His expertise led him to the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), where he served as an assistant coach for the Phoenix Mercury from 2006 to 2007, before taking the helm as head coach from 2007 to 2013.
He then transitioned to the National Basketball Association (NBA), serving as an assistant coach for the Phoenix suns (2013, 2015-2016), New York Knicks (2016-2018), and Washington Wizards (2019-2021).
His impressive resume demonstrates his ability to thrive in diverse basketball environments, from independent leagues to the pinnacle of professional basketball.
From NBA Courts to International Stages
His playing career was equally impressive, spanning over a decade and taking him across continents.
He began his NBA journey in 1988 with the New Jersey Nets, followed by stints with the Philadelphia 76ers and Denver Nuggets.
He later played in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) and international leagues in Turkey and Israel, gaining valuable experience and broadening his understanding of the game.
In 1997-98, he played for the Japan Energy Griffins, further solidifying his connection to Japanese basketball.
his diverse playing experience, coupled with his extensive coaching background, makes him a unique and highly qualified leader for the Japan men’s national team.
As he guides the team towards future competitions, his deep understanding of the game, combined with his cultural insights, positions him to make a significant impact on Japanese basketball.
The Gaines Era: A new Hope Dawns for Japan Women’s Basketball
Corey Gaines’ appointment as head coach of the japan Women’s National team isn’t just a coaching change; it’s the start of a new era. His resume speaks for itself: two WNBA championships with the Phoenix Mercury, assistant coaching stints in the NBA, and invaluable experience within the Japanese basketball landscape. This is a coach who understands the demands of elite-level basketball and the nuances of Japanese basketball culture.
This goes beyond mere pedigree. Gaines’ connection to Japan runs deep, dating back to his playing days with the Japan Energy Griffins alongside future Japanese Men’s National Team coach Tom Horvath. This firsthand experience fosters a critical understanding of the cultural context within which he’ll be leading the team.
His previous involvement with both the Japanese Men’s and Women’s national teams further solidifies this connection. As an advisory coach for the women’s team in 2016 and a key member of the men’s team staff during their FIBA world Cup 2023 campaign and Paris 2024 Olympic qualifiers, Gaines has already demonstrated his commitment to Japanese basketball.
Gaines’ statement upon accepting the position echoes this sentiment, highlighting his desire to “rediscover what it means to represent Japan and guide this team back to greatness.” This isn’t just about wins and losses; it’s about building a program that embodies the values and spirit of japanese basketball on the world stage.
The challenge ahead is notable. Japan Women’s Basketball, while historically strong, faces stiff competition in a global landscape that’s become increasingly fierce. But with Gaines at the helm, there’s reason for optimism. His experience, leadership, and profound understanding of Japanese basketball provide a solid foundation for a resurgence.
This appointment is a testament to the Japan Basketball Association’s commitment to excellence. They have entrusted the future of their women’s program to a proven leader with a deep understanding of the game and a genuine passion for Japan. The Gaines era promises to be an exciting chapter in the history of Japan Women’s Basketball. the world will be watching.
