Tokyo Medical University falls Short in Empress’s Cup, But Freshman Star Shines
Despite a dominant season and a fierce rally, Tokyo Medical and Health University narrowly missed an upset victory against powerhouse Denso Iris in the second round of the 92nd Empress’s Cup All-Japan Basketball Championship, losing 76-81. The defeat, while frustrating, underscores a remarkable season for the university team and highlights the emergence of a potential star in freshman Otowa Goto.
Undefeated Run to the Championship Stage
Tokyo Medical and Health University entered the Empress’s Cup with significant momentum, having swept through their league undefeated and securing a spot in the national tournament. Their journey to the second round was marked by consistent teamwork and a strong defensive presence.
Near Comeback
The championship contest saw Denso Iris establish an early lead midway through the second quarter,forcing Tokyo Medical and Health university to play from behind. Trailing by 11 points with just 6 minutes and 8 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter, the university team mounted a spirited comeback. Fueled by tenacious defense and the offensive prowess of ace Haru Owaki, they narrowed the gap to just two points with two minutes left on the clock. Ultimately, crucial offensive rebounds from Ako Himawari and a clutch three-point shot from Maki Takada sealed the victory for Denso Iris.
Coach Onzuka Cites Pressure and Rebounding as Key Factors
Head coach Toru Onzuka acknowledged the team’s valiant effort but pointed to performance under pressure as a key factor in the loss. “We weren’t able to play as well as we normally would in situations where we where under a lot of pressure, so we weren’t able to build up enough,” he stated. He also emphasized the importance of rebounding, noting that Denso’s ability to secure second-chance opportunities proved decisive. “Ako’s offensive rebound decided the game,but you can fight by being in a position where you can get a rebound.On the other hand, we weren’t able to use our numbers.”
Goto’s Remarkable debut and Future Potential
Despite the defeat, the performance of first-year player Otowa Goto offered a bright spot for Tokyo medical and Health University.Contributing 11 points and 4 assists in nearly 40 minutes of play, Goto showcased his potential as a key player for years to come. He previously excelled on the international stage, leading his team to a 6th-place finish at the FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup 2025 with averages of 18.9 points and 7.6 rebounds.
“Even though we were against Denso and knew the difference in level, we focused on playing well and everyone played with the feeling that ‘we can do it’,” Goto shared after the game. Despite his impressive debut, the young player remains focused on continuous enhancement. “I feel like I still have a long way to go,” he admitted. “As a scorer, I wont to score points in significant moments of the game. I thought that if I could put more pressure on the ballman defensively, I could give the team more energy.”
A Holistic Approach to Player Development
Goto’s ambition extends beyond individual performance, stating, “My number one goal is to become a player who can definitely help the team win.” this dedication aligns with the coaching philosophy of Toru Onzuka, who emphasizes not only basketball skills but also personal growth. Having previously coached the Japan women’s national team at the Paris Olympics, Onzuka aims to instill in his players the confidence and abilities needed to compete on the world stage. He believes that success in basketball is intrinsically linked to success in life, fostering a holistic approach to player development.
Embracing Pressure and Looking Ahead
Despite the increased expectations surrounding his performance, Goto remains undeterred. “There is some pressure, but I want to enjoy the pressure, take it for granted, and focus on the basketball itself and try to win,” he affirmed.His commitment to continuous improvement and team success positions him as a player to watch in the coming years, with the potential to become a cornerstone of the next generation of Japanese national team players. There is no doubt that Goto possesses the talent and drive to evolve into a world-class athlete under the guidance of Coach Onzuka.
