Rui Hachimura’s Toyama Homecoming and Return to Japan National Team

A tram operated by Toyama Chihou Tetsudo was wrapped in a special livery celebrating NBA player Rui Hachimura’s homecoming. The low‑floor “Centrum” car displayed images of the Tateyama Mountains, local festivals and sushi, while 72 flags bearing his name were placed around Toyama Station. Banners reading “Rui Hachimura Toyama Homecoming” and “Black Samurai” were hung in the station’s plazas, and a large banner was displayed inside the venue that will host his first official event in Japan after his stint with the Los Angeles Clippers.

On August 1, Hachimura addressed fans in Tokyo, announcing his intention to rejoin the Japan men’s national basketball team. He said he wants to help the “Black Samurai” prepare for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers and the Los Angeles Olympic Games, and expressed excitement about playing in Japan again. His return is expected to be confirmed before the Japan‑Korea match on August 16, part of the final qualification round for the FIBA World Cup.